Mikel Arteta is "concerned" by the injury problems that continue to hamper Emile Smith Rowe's season.
The midfielder has only made four substitute appearances this term with no starts yet coming his way after a pre-season that was interupted by injury setbacks. Smith Rowe looked to have aggravated his fitness woes when warming down after the defeat at Manchester United earlier this month.
It has left Arteta, once again, bemoaning his player's problems which has meant he's been unable to put his all into training. Now it looks as if the Arsenal academy graduate may have to undergo surgery if he is to finally rid of the issue.
The Gunners boss said: “I am concerned about the fact that we don’t have him available and when he’s been trying to train he’s not been feeling 100% fit or pain free. “This is the main concern and we have to find a solution to that. We’re trying to do that.”
Arsenal travel to Brentford on Sunday before they have a two-week break due to the international window. Upon their return they take on Tottenham in a north London derby in what will be the start of a crucial month that could define whether or not Arteta's side will challenge this term.
Smith Rowe is currently out of the England picture due to his lack of minutes. He was selected by Gareth Southgate last season but is behind several established stars in the pecking order which may well see him miss out on the World Cup in Qatar this winter.
Arteta added: "Very frustrating. He’s a kid that loves playing football. It’s the biggest thing in his life. And when he’s not capable of doing that, especially after the run of games and performances that he had with us the year before, it’s just difficult.
"But injuries are part of football that you’re going to get at some stage of your career. It’s how you face those difficult moments and now you make the next step."
Smith Rowe is currently trying to break into a front quartet that have established themselves in the opening weeks of the season. Gabriel Jesus has led the line with Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and captain Martin Odegaard supporting him. Smith Rowe can operate from the wing or as the No 10 giving him options if he can become a starter once more.
