Arsenal star Emile Smith Rowe will miss this evening's FA Cup clash against Manchester City through injury.
Smith Rowe was on the sidelines for almost four months after undergoing surgery on an ongoing groin problem before making his return to action during the 3-0 win over Oxford United earlier this month. However, he wasn't spotted with the rest of the Gunners' travelling squad for their visit to the Etihad Stadium on Friday night.
football.london understands that the Hale End academy graduate is suffering from a thigh strain and is therefore being left out as a precaution. Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta will be hoping that the 22-year-old recovers quickly ahead of next week's league clash against Everton, previously highlighting the youngster's importance for the second half of the campaign.
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“We need him fit and at his best, and when we have that, we have an incredible player that we have missed a lot in the last few months", Arteta said earlier this month when asked about Smith Rowe. "He can play as an attacking midfielder, as a winger and even as a nine; I think he’s played there before.”
The skilful playmaker netted ten league goals last season, establishing himself as one of the most talented youngsters in the English top flight, earning his first England cap in the process.
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