Emile Smith Rowe comments on long-awaited return from injury

2022/23 has been a season of frustration for Emile Smith Rowe thus far despite Arsenal’s brilliance, but the dynamic midfielder is hopeful that he can have an impact after making his long-awaited return from injury on Monday night.

Smith Rowe’s introduction with 15 minutes remaining at the Kassam Stadium was the icing on the cake for the Gunners as they eventually cruised into the FA Cup fourth round following a 3-0 victory over Oxford United.

The visitors were dire in the opening period before improving after Mohamed Elneny gave them the lead just after the hour. Eddie Nketiah scored twice to seal Arsenal’s progression with Manchester City awaiting in the fourth round.

Smith Rowe’s cameo was fairly quiet, but he did almost get on the scoresheet on his first appearance since the start of September.

Emile Smith Rowe comments on long-awaited return from injury

Supporters were thrilled to see Smith Rowe back out on the pitch, and the player himself is keen to work his way back into Mikel Arteta’s plans once he works his way up to full fitness.

“It has been difficult being out for this long,” the midfielder said (via @afcstuff), “I don’t think I have had this [long lay-off] before and it has been tough watching the boys, but at the same time, we are top of the league & playing really well, so I can’t complain.”

Smith Rowe’s groin injury had been bothering him for a long time with the 22-year-old admitting that he’s been dealing with the issue since his loan stint at RB Leipzig in 2019. However, he said after the Oxford win that he’s “feeling good” and is “happy” that the ordeal is over (hopefully).

The versatile midfielder’s return is a timely one ahead of a difficult January schedule. Next up for Arteta’s side is the North London Derby at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday afternoon. While Smith Rowe is unlikely to start, he’ll be expected to make the matchday squad and be an option for Arteta off the bench.