Arsenal forward Emile Smith Rowe has suffered a damaged tendon in his groin, ruling him out of Nottingham Forest's trip to the Emirates Stadium.
Smith Rowe, 22, has only made four appearances this season, all coming off the bench. However, following the 3-1 defeat to Manchester United at the start of September, the winger pulled up in the warm down with a recurring issue he struggled with in pre-season.
After missing the 3-0 win at Brentford before the international break, the club confirmed today (Thursday) that the academy graduate has undergone surgery.
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In a statement released on the club's website, it says: "In recent months, Emile Smith Rowe has been experiencing discomfort in his groin, which has limited his training and match appearances.
"Following a significant setback at our Premier League match against Manchester United at Old Trafford on September 4, and after further specialist consultations and discussions with our medical team, Emile underwent surgery to repair a damaged tendon in his groin.
"This successful surgery took place in London in the past few days and Emile’s rehabilitation programme is already underway. We are hopeful that Emile will return to full training in December.
"Everyone at the club will now be supporting and working hard with Emile to get him back on the pitch as soon as possible."
Forest are set to travel to north London at the end of October to face Mikel Arteta's side in the Premier League.
How much of a boost to Forest will Smith Rowe's absence be? Have your say in the comments...
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