Report: Mikel Arteta will not have ‘incredible’ Arsenal player in his squad to face Newcastle United tonight

Add as preferred source on Google

Football.London reports that Mikel Arteta will not have Emile Smith Rowe in his squad to face Newcastle United tonight, with the clash coming too soon for the player. 

The Gunners face a massive test tonight as they are set to host Newcastle at the Emirates Stadium.

Eddie Howe’s men haven’t tasted defeat in the Premier League since a 2-1 defeat at Anfield back in August and they currently sit in third place.

Arsenal currently sit nine points above the Magpies at the top of the pile but it’s expected to be their toughest test since returning from the World Cup.

And Arteta has been handed an injury blow before the clash as Smith Rowe is not ready to return to action just yet.

Arteta will not have Smith Rowe

The 22-year-old has been ruled out ever since Arsenal’s 3-1 defeat at Old Trafford after picking up a groin injury.

Smith Rowe underwent surgery and returned to training last month but he suffered a setback before Arsenal’s win over West Ham on Boxing Day.

Football.London claims that the youngster has taken positive steps since but he will not be ready for the clash against Newcastle tonight, leaving Arteta slightly short in terms of his attacking options.

Arsenal have coped well without Gabriel Jesus so far as Eddie Nketiah has stepped up and bagged two goals in as many games.

Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli have also got on the scoresheet in both of Arsenal’s wins since the World Cup.

But Arteta will be desperate to get Smith Rowe back amongst the action as he is currently short of options across the front-three.

The Hale End academy product was a key player for the Gunners last season but had fallen down the pecking order slightly before picking up an injury.

Smith Rowe has shown he is capable of playing across the front-three, as well as his natural position in midfield. He will be hoping to return to full training as soon as possible and force his way back into the Arsenal side.

But in the meantime, Arsenal face a huge clash against the side that boast the best defensive record in the Premier League tonight.