Mikel Arteta reacts to Emile Smith Rowe’s display in Arsenal win

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Mikel Arteta has labelled Emile Smith Rowe’s performance in Arsenal’s North London derby victory ‘magnificent’, in comments reported by Football London.

The Gunners took the bragging rights in some style on Sunday. They came from behind to beat Spurs 2-1 at the Emirates.

It is remarkable to think that Smith Rowe was making his first appearance in the derby. The 20-year-old has been outstanding since bursting into the side.

And he picked up where he left off upon his return to the starting lineup. He hit the bar and he caused the visitors all sorts of problems.

As shown by Whoscored, he made four key passes during the contest. That was double the number of any other player on the pitch.

And Arteta suggested that he was definitely one of the players who stepped up for the Gunners.

“I think he had a magnificent performance as well again,” he said, as reported by Football London. “I think he shows not only quality but his personality on the pitch. His energy gave us something different. Today in a derby you need some big individual performances and for sure he had one.”

Arsenal could have a seriously exciting attacking line if Smith Rowe and Martin Odegaard can continue to play at such a high level alongside each other.

Both youngsters were outstanding in the win. And while Arsenal fans may be bracing themselves to lose Odegaard when his loan ends, they can surely celebrate the fact that Smith Rowe looks set to be a key man for years to come.