Arsenal attacking midfielder Emile Smith Rowe returned from injury to put in an excellent display against Slavia Prague last night.
The 20-year-old played a part in the first three goals, as well as having his own chalked off for offside, during a furious opening 25 minutes which effectively sealed the Gunners’ progression to the semi-finals of the Europe League.
Smith Rowe was completely at home in the no.10 role and many supporters on Twitter were keen to highlight his performance after the match in Prague:
He has Ramsey, Ozil and Febragas in him.
— Captain Buthelezi (@CaptainButhele1) April 15, 2021
If we’re unable to retain Odegaard for another season, ESR should always be in the 10 role.
— Bra Dela ??? (@BraDela9) April 15, 2021
Agreed, he looks amazing in the AM role. He through defences so easy with his off ball movement and link up with Saka.
— CG (@CGKnowsBall) April 15, 2021
His link up plays with saka was top notch
— kachie ?? (@Kachie_88) April 15, 2021
Even scored a valid goal ruled offside
— GoonerKieran (@gooner_kieran) April 15, 2021
ESR has that Hleb kind of balling brains that's role from the wing kind of fits him,just as Hleb.I just hope he stays fit and stay injury free,him, saka, Martineli, Balogun are all going to be part of something special
— gemini♊man (@AbrahamAliyu) April 15, 2021
Smith Rowe Ceballos Saka all very good
— LD (@Lacazdona) April 15, 2021
The playmaker’s pass created the opener for Nicolas Pepe. He then delivered another excellent ball to Bukayo Saka who won a penalty three minutes later, before being heavily involved in the build-up for the third.
It will be interesting to see what happens when Martin Odegaard makes his comeback from an ankle injury. The Norwegian has looked very good in the no.10 role but there is an argument to be made that Smith Rowe now deserves a run of games in that position.
