'Now is not his time': BBC pundit urges Arsenal player to stick with Arteta, despite being left out once again at Bournemouth

By Lee Connor

Commentating on Arsenal v Bournemouth for the BBC today, former Brighton striker Glenn Murray believes Emile Smith Rowe needs to stay patient.

Smith Rowe was one of the standout players for Arsenal last season but is having to make do with a bit part role so far this season. That’s nothing to do with him as such, and more to do with how well the likes of Odegaard, Jesus and Martinelli are all playing.

Of course, whenever a player isn’t playing and they have international ambitions, rumours can start to circulate about potential transfers. However, commenting on Smith Rowe for the BBC today, Murray believes Arsenal remains the right place for the midfielder.

“Emile Smith Rowe will want to see action on the pitch, he’ll feel the pressure but Arsenal without a doubt the right place for him to progress his career. Mikel Arteta will look after him, put him in the right times but now is just not his time,” Murray said of the England and Arsenal midfielder.

Smith Rowe did indeed end up getting onto the pitch and played his role as Arsenal saw out the game comfortably.

TBR’s View: Smith Rowe Will Play For Arsenal

At the end of the day, the best teams have big squads who can adapt and contribute as the season goes on and that’s what Emile Smith Rowe will need to do.

He is a quality player on his day and at the moment he just needs to stay patient. It would be amazing to even see him consider moving on at all, but such is modern football that these discussion points often open up.

Murray is right about Smith Rowe here. Mikel Arteta will look after him and for now, he just has to stay put and keep fighting for minutes.