Emile Smith Rowe Gets a Rare Start for Arsenal Against Nottingham Forest
The young talent, Emile Smith Rowe, is set to make just his second Premier League start of the season for Arsenal in their match against Nottingham Forest. According to Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, this opportunity is “fully deserved” for the 23-year-old.
Smith Rowe has faced injury problems this season, and with a crowded midfield and forward positions, breaking into the starting lineup has been a challenge for the homegrown talent. However, now fully fit, Arteta believes that Smith Rowe has shown enough in training and previous appearances to earn his place in the starting XI.
“He fully deserves it, he’s been training really good, now he’s got some consistency, many weeks available,” Arteta told TNT Sports. “He’s played some games, impacted the game a few times and we believe it’s the right game as well, to give him the opportunity he fully deserves and to impact the game now.”
Smith Rowe made two appearances off the bench in December after recovering from a knee injury. He also came on as a substitute in Arsenal’s recent 5-0 victory over Crystal Palace. Gunners legend Martin Keown is pleased to see Smith Rowe back in action and hopes that he can fulfill the promise he showed a couple of seasons ago.
“I think it was a really big thing when he signed a new contract two or three seasons ago and gave him the no.10 shirt, and he hasn’t really kicked on,” said Keown. “He’s had lots of injuries, he’s been sitting watching for most of this season, and this is a massive opportunity for him. I expect him to take that opportunity tonight.”
In addition to Smith Rowe, there were concerns over the fitness of Declan Rice and Gabriel. However, both players have overcome their fitness issues and will start the match against Nottingham Forest. Arteta praised their dedication and hard work in making themselves available for the game.
“They really pushed and did everything that they could to make themselves available for the game,” said Arteta. “It’s a big game for us today and they want to be present.”
This opportunity against Nottingham Forest is crucial for Smith Rowe, who has faced setbacks due to injuries. With the chance to start and prove himself, he has the potential to make a significant impact on the match. Arsenal fans will be eagerly watching to see if he can deliver on the promise he has shown in the past.
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