Arsenal see Emile Smith Rowe thrive from Martin Odegaard challenge

Such was the impact Emile Smith Rowe had at Arsenal that the debate over whether another creative midfielder would be needed in January emerged. Would the arrival of a fellow No. 10 stunt his development or act as welcome competition?

The main reason for the arrival of Martin Odegaard was neither. He wasn’t going to be directly battling it out for the sole creative slot in the team. For all intents and purposes, Smith Rowe made his Premier League debut in that 3-1 win over Chelsea on Boxing Day. We can frame it as that.

Mere weeks into his spell in the Arsenal first team, the burden this 20-year-old was shouldering had to be shared. Frodo needed Sam, Emile needed Martin.

Having gone from fielding nobody in the No. 10 position to appointing an academy star with that responsibility in a bid to prevent the slump further. Even if nothing should have been expected from Smith Rowe, he was passed the creative mantle to carry himself.

Arsenal see Emile Smith Rowe thrive from Martin Odegaard challenge following January transfer signing

Fighting on three fronts at the time, it was essential that the minutes be distributed. There was even scope for them both to play in the same team, as later implemented, with Smith Rowe confidently assuming the left-winger role and putting in some of his best displays on that flank.

What has already been on show and what will come in the years to follow is the solace Arsenal supporters are clinging on to. Odegaard dazzled during an impressive stint pre-international break, but throughout his time in north London it’s been Smith Rowe who has stolen the show.

How much of an impact the Norwegian’s arrival has played in that is purely speculative, yet whether Smith Rowe framed it as a challenge or not, if they were both loanees you know which one you’re getting the chequebook out for.

They’re teammates and this isn’t a rivalry in any way. Odegaard has shown flashes of his ability when fully fit and if the price is right – £40m is too steep – then his return to north London would be welcomed with open arms.

But there is no arguing who the standout creator in this team is. Smith Rowe, like Bukayo Saka, has shown immense maturity this season, embracing the occasion and thriving under the pressure. For someone who bleeds red and white, the prospect of him playing in front of supporters may see him take his game up another level.

An effervescence akin only to that of his close friend, Smith Rowe is walking his own path to greatness. Anyone along the way will do well to stop him.