Ian Wright praises Mikel Arteta for ‘absolutely perfect’ handling of Emile Smith Rowe

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Ian Wright has told Wrighty’s House Podcast that Emile Smith Rowe could choose to leave Arsenal if he doesn’t play regular football.

The youngster has been a revelation since making his first league start of the campaign against Chelsea last month.

His creativity has been abundantly clear during the last three matches, with the 20-year-old claiming two assists.

Wright has been impressed with the £20,000-a-week youngster’s performance levels and raved about them during his latest podcast.

He has some advice for the Gunners though and feels if Nicolas Pepe and Willian keep playing ahead of Smith Rowe, he could grow frustrated.

Wright said on Wrighty’s House Podcast: “I think what Mikel has done, the timing in which he has done it, is absolutely perfect because I think if Smith Rowe doesn’t get into this team – if they’re going to persist with people who are not performing, whether it’s Willian or Pepe, I think you lose him.

“Especially with January being here and then we end up with another Serge Gnabry on our hands.”

Smith Rowe has played 19 times for the club in total but he has been forced to wait patiently during the current campaign.

He began the season injured and was then restricted to three Europa League outings.

The creative midfielder played three games in Europe scoring once and registering two assists – leading to fans call for a league shot.

He has grasped the opportunity and the future looks bright.

TBR View: Wright on the money regarding Smith Rowe

Arteta has seen a glimpse of what the Hale End graduate can do and he must give him a platform to shine.

Arsenal have looked more creative in the three games he has played this season than they have in any other contest.

Supporters will forgive the odd mistake from a younger player learning his trade more so than if an experienced player continues to make them.

Willian has been poor since checking in, whilst Pepe is also running out of chances to impress.

Smith Rowe has been magnificent in the last three games and Arteta will hope his form can continue.