Declan Rice delivered his verdict on Emile Smith Rowe’s display for Arsenal against Luton Town last night.
Emile Smith Rowe got a rare opportunity to impress from the off last night as he started alongside Thomas Partey and Martin Odegaard in midfield.
It was the 23-year-old’s third Premier League start of the season as Mikel Arteta made five changes to the side which earned a point at Manchester City.
Smith Rowe earned praise from Arteta following an encouraging display in the 2-0 win over Luton Town.
The Englishman played a key role in both goals as he won the ball back high up the pitch shortly before Odegaard’s opener.
He then created the second after finding space down the left-hand side as his delivery forced Daiki Hashioka to score an own goal.
Rice delivers verdict on Smith Rowe display
Following an impressive 85 minutes from Smith Rowe, Rice took to Instagram to send the midfielder a message.
The Arsenal star reacted to Smith Rowe picking up the Player of the Match award and wrote: “This guy,” alongside a star emoji.
Smith Rowe stats for Arsenal
Smith Rowe has managed just 17 appearances in all competitions this season as he’s struggled for starts under Arteta.
The Hale End Academy product was previously a key man before last season but has seen his game time reduced.
Despite only starting three games in the Premier League this term, Smith Rowe has registered one assist.
Off the back of last night’s display, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the midfielder feature more regularly between now and the end of the season.
He’s proven he can be effective in that left-sided central midfield role and despite the changes in midfield last night, Arsenal looked well-balanced in the middle of the park.
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