Arsenal
Reiss Nelson compares Arsenal star to Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne
Emile Smith-Rowe has grabbed his opportunity in Arsenal’s starting line-up with both hands of late, starring once again against Brighton on Tuesday night – and Reiss Nelson has compared him to a Manchester City star.
A handful of decent performances in the Europa League – including a goal and two assists against Molde, Rapid Vienna and Dundalk – has seen 20-year-old Smith-Rowe handed a chance in the Premier League side.
The England Under-20 international laid on an assist during the 3-1 win over Chelsea and played 89 of the 90 minutes during Arsenal’s win over Brighton on Tuesday night, as the Gunners made it two wins from two.
Smith-Rowe – lauded by Ian Wright on Match of the Day – posted on Instagram after the win, underlining his delight at not only being a part of the Arsenal side and getting regular game time, but helping the Gunners get back on track.
Smith-Rowe has helped Arsenal fans and the media draw the narrative away from Mesut Ozil’s absence – and instead gain praise for the younger players in the team. Bukayo Saka was excellent once again, as was Gabriel Martinelli.
Plenty responded to Smith-Rowe’s Instagram post including former Leicester midfielder Andy King, and Arsenal players Folarin Balogun, Ainsley Maitland-Niles and more. Nelson, meanwhile, mentioned Kevin De Bruyne.
