3 players that need more minutes as Arsenal continue title push

3. Emile Smith Rowe

Another Hale End product was also on the bench against Aston Villa. Still recovering from a serious groin operation, Emile Smith Rowe edges closer to making his (second) much-awaited return. The Englishman has been out for months and his absence has been felt in recent games.

He brings with him energy, directness and brilliant close-control dribbling. With teams sitting increasingly deeper, his traits are needed to break down tight defences. Part of the reason the left-hand side has been dysfunctional recently has been Xhaka’s inexperience in the attacking third. Smith Rowe’s inclusion in the side would elevate the attack with quality and precision.

Arteta has taken a cautious approach with Smith Rowe thus far, with his eye on the long-term well-being of the player. Few can argue with that as the end goal is to have a reliable and fit option. Minutes must slowly be built up to ensure that if needed to be called upon, Smith Rowe can contribute. He will be a crucial piece moving forward.

Arsenal’s consistency of selection has allowed them to establish their identity and playing style. Yet as opposition managers find ways to negate the strengths of Arteta’s starting XI, he may turn to the bench to change things. Before reaching a critical point of being backed into a corneutely needing certain players, he must build up their minutes to make sure they are ready when called upon. Should Arteta get his bench firing, Arsenal have the potential to keep pushing Manchester City.