Mikel Arteta shares what he noticed about Emile Smith Rowe’s body language during Arsenal game last night

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It seemed as if both Arsenal fans and Mikel Arteta were absolutely delighted to see Emile Smith Rowe back starting in the Premier League last night.

Smith Rowe has endured a difficult year or so, putting up with extensive injury issues as well as speculation over his future.

However, during all the noise, it seemed that both the player and Arteta were confident that they knew where they stood.

Arteta was instrumental in helping Smith Rowe during his recovery, often having chats with his midfielder.

And although it’s taken longer than expected, it seems the Spaniard is now willing to place the England international back into his starting eleven.

Smith Rowe played 71 minutes in Arsenal’s win over Nottingham Forest, being replaced by Kai Havertz shortly before the side’s second goal.

And following the game, Arteta was so full of compliments for Smith Rowe, who he clearly thinks can make a difference in the remainder of the season.

Arteta was speaking in his press conference, and took a moment to talk about the Englishman’s body language.

Mikel Arteta thought Emile Smith Rowe played with real freedom for Arsenal at Forest

Sharing his verdict, Arteta said: “That he went for it, that he was free, he was flowing, he was moving, he was participating, his body language was good – he’s just a beautiful footballer to watch.

“I’m really pleased because he was really connected with the team and I thought he played the game in a really good way.”

Of course, Smith Rowe’s impact will have been a real joy for all associated with Arsenal to watch last night, including Arteta.

Many were delighted to see his name back on the team sheet, with the away fans taking no time to sing his familiar song in the Forest terraces shortly after kick off.

It looked like it could potentially be a night of frustration for The Gunners, but Gabriel Jesus eventually made the difference.

That being said, Alan Brazil thinks Arsenal would now ‘batter teams’ if they made one more signing.