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Gilberto Silva has told his Invisible Wall podcast that while he has been impressed by Arsenal playmaker Emile Smith-Rowe, he has urged patience among supporters and challenged the player to become consistemt.
Smith-Rowe, 20, has come into the starting line-up and his inclusion has coincided with Arsenal’s return to form. The Gunners have won three games on the bounce against Chelsea, Brighton and West Bromwich Albion.
The England Under-20 international has been in stunning form, and gained enormous plaudits from Arsenal supporters. He is expected to remain in the side, as he helps Arsenal fans finally forget about Mesut Ozil.
Arsenal legend Silva has been impressed but wants Smith-Rowe to turn his breakthrough form into consistency, and urged supporters not to pile the pressure on his shoulders – and be patient with him if things drop off.
“Arsenal have similar options in midfield,” Silva told his podcast on Wednesday. “But he’s different from Ceballos, Xhaka, Partey, Elneny. I think of him as an attacking midfielder.
TBR’s view – Smith-Rowe can save Arsenal a whole heap of money
Houssem Aouar was linked with Arsenal in the summer, but a move from Lyon did not go through – with price tags north of £40million being touted. Emi Buendia has been linked, but the Norwich ace is also rated at £40million.
But promotion Smith-Rowe would save Arsenal from spending big on a player that is good enough to start. Instead, the Gunners may only have to sign a player that can provide back-up to Smith-Rowe, and therefore cheaper.
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