Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Emile Smith Rowe is back in light training ahead of Arsenal's Premier League clash against Brentford.
The Hale End grad has been out with a groin injury for much of the 2022/23 season but made his return for the FA Cup third round clash with Oxford in early January. The winger was then dealt a a setback in his recovery plan after suffering a thigh strain which saw him miss the defeat to Manchester City in the next round and the loss to Everton last weekend.
Arsenal were able to recruit more options in attack during the January transfer window with the arrival of Leandro Trossard somewhat softening the blow of Smith Rowe, Reiss Nelson and Gabriel Jesus all being injured.
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Those injury woes in attack seem to be decreasing though with Jesus, Nelson and Smith Rowe all making steady progress.
Speaking ahead of their clash with Brentford Arteta said: "The ones that they were long time like Emile, Reiss and Gabi they are closer. They started to do some work outside but they are not ready to contribute yet."
Pressed further on the availability of Smith Rowe specifically for the Brentford clash, Arteta said: "Not for this game."
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