Emile Smith-Rowe identifies the Arsenal player that is his biggest influence

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Emile Smith-Rowe has claimed after Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Newcastle United that Alexandre Lacazette is his biggest influence currently playing for the Gunners as per BBC Live – as the midfielder laid on another assist on Monday.

Smith-Rowe, 20, took his tally to two goals and five assists in 10 appearances this season with a beautifully-weighted pass for Bukayo Saka to score Arsenal’s second – as the two youngsters combined yet again for Arsenal.

The England Under-20 star has been in delightful form of late, with all three of his Premier League assists this season coming in his last five games. He also scored against Newcastle in the FA Cup beforehand.

There has even been talk of a possible England call-up and if Smith-Rowe is to break into the Euro 2021 squad, he is timing his breakthrough form to perfection. Asked about his biggest Arsenal influence, he named Lacazette.

“Alexandre Lacazette, playing with him up top, really helps me. He gives me a lot of confidence off the pitch and he talks to me a lot,” Smith-Rowe told the media, as quoted by BBC Sport’s live coverage of the match.

TBR’s view – Lacazette proving to be crucial on and off the pitch

It was a tricky stage in his Arsenal career. France international Lacazette was failing to score goals, being used in the number 10 role – but recently, he has transformed his game alongside Arsenal’s improved form.

The former Lyon striker has now netted five goals in his last six league and cup appearances. Although he failed to score in the last two Premier League games, clearly Lacazette’s form has been in stunning in front of goal.

However, Lacazette is not only proving important on the pitch – but clearly he is showing a pivotal quality off the pitch as he continues to inspire the in-form Smith-Rowe, who is making Arsenal fans forget about Mesut Ozil.