Ray Parlour has been speaking on talkSPORT about Emile Smith Rowe after Gabriel Martinelli signed a new contract with Arsenal.
The Brazil international has put pen to paper on a long-term deal running until June 2027, with the Gunners also negotiating an option to extend his terms by a further 12 months.
After hearing the news, Parlour made an interesting claim about Martinelli – who cost Arsenal just £6m – which involves Smith Rowe.
What’s the story?
Well, Parlour believes Smith Rowe’s injury issues have actually helped Martinelli flourish.
The England international has been struggling with a groin injury for most of this season, which has limited him to just five Premier League appearances.
Understandably, the situation is seemingly upsetting Mikel Arteta, who said back in September that Arsenal “need” the Hale End product back to full fitness.
Arsenal’s official website quote the Spaniard as saying: “We need him fit, we need him available and we need him performing at the best level, because he’s such an important player for us. Unfortunately, for this period and for periods last year, we haven’t had him.”
Despite Arteta’s frustrations, Parlour believes Smith Rowe’s absence has helped Martinelli.
The 49-year-old told talkSPORT: “He’s been brilliant. Obviously Smith Rowe getting injured gave him more of an opportunity on that left hand side and he hasn’t looked back. That’s what you want from players.”
Smith Rowe can now join Martinelli in Arsenal title charge
Thankfully for the Gunners, Smith Rowe is now back fit and available for selection.
The Arsenal No.10 came on late in the 2-0 win over Tottenham recently, and his return to action will be just like a new signing for Arteta – if you’ll pardon the cliche.
Hopefully, Smith Rowe doesn’t have any more issues with his groin, and he can play a significant role in the Premier League title race.
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