Wright suggests what Smith-Rowe might be thinking about latest Arsenal signing

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Ian Wright has told his podcast Wright’s House that he is concerned that Arsenal playmaker Emile Smith-Rowe’s mindset when it comes to the signing of Martin Odegaard – and claims he has sent him a message.

Odegaard, 22, has joined Arsenal on loan until the end of the season from Real Madrid – having starred on loan at Real Sociedad last season in which he had a hand in 16 goals during his 36 games. He has joined on a dry loan.

The signing comes despite the stunning form of Smith-Rowe – with the England Under-20 international’s return to the starting line-up proving crucial in Mikel Arteta turning around Arsenal’s form in all competitions.

Arsenal icon Wright has claimed he has told Smith-Rowe in a message that he must play and train like Arsenal are going to replace you – and is now concerned that Smith-Rowe feels like he is being replaced.

“I hope it doesn’t make Emile feel like, ‘oh no, I was just getting my motor revved up and now this is happening’,” Wright said. “Like with Jesse Lingard, you always have to think that the club is getting ready to replace you.

“I sent him a message saying that. I said even through that barron spell at Arsenal, I played every week like Arsenal are going to bring someone in  – because you have to. If that is not going to drive you in training to be better, then that person will take your place.”

TBR’s view – Smith-Rowe need to focus on what he is doing

Smith-Rowe’s form has given him the time to show Arteta that he deserves to retain his Arsenal place at least for the next handful of matches. If he is to retain his place following the signing of Odegaard, he needs to keep doing it.

Right now, Smith-Rowe is first choice. He is churning out performances that are 8/10 or more. But if that drops off, then Odegaard will be brought in and given his chance to show Arsenal fans why he has been signed.