Alan Brazil delivers his verdict on Emile Smith Rowe’s performance for Arsenal vs Nottingham Forest last night

Add as preferred source on Google

Alan Brazil has given his verdict on Emile Smith Rowe’s performance for Arsenal against Nottingham Forest last night.

The 23-year-old winger was named in Mikel Arteta’s starting XI for only the third time this season, with Smith Rowe replacing Kai Havertz in central midfield alongside Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard.

Despite the decision, Smith Rowe impressed in the role, with Arteta praising the youngster post-match as Arsenal finally came away from the City Ground with a win.

And speaking on TalkSport, Brazil was also impressed with what he saw from Smith Rowe, though the pundit noted that the England international looked disappointed to come off in the 71st minute.

Indeed, given the winger’s injury record, it was a wise decision from Arsenal’s coaching staff to bring off Smith Rowe, especially with the game already at 2-0 at that stage.

Brazil said on the youngster’s performance: “I thought Smith Rowe was good, he was disappointed with coming off but he should be but I thought he did well.”

Emile Smith Rowe will be pleased with his Arsenal performance last night

Although Smith Rowe had every right to look disappointed having come off with 20 minutes to go, the Arsenal playmaker will secretly be feeling quite pleased with himself.

A lot has been made in recent weeks over the winger’s future, with the likes of West Ham reportedly making a move to sign Smith Rowe on loan this January.

However, Arteta has shown he wants to keep the 23-year-old around, and Smith Rowe is beginning to repay that faith having starred in midfield last night against Forest.

Indeed, the youngster has a long way to go before he’s back to his best, yet signs from yesterday are encouraging, and Smith Rowe knows he has the potential to become a real asset for Arsenal.