Speaking to CaughtOffside, Arsenal legend Michael Thomas has warned Mikel Arteta about overly relying on young Emile Smith Rowe over the next six months.
The young Englishman has been a breath of fresh air since Boxing Day. Smith Rowe has been among Arsenal’s best players in our last four games. He has two goals and four assists in just four starts this term which is a stunning record for someone of his age.
Smith Rowe has brought in the creativity we lacked during our winless run. Many Arsenal fans feel Arteta has found the perfect replacement to Mesut Ozil, but Thomas has urged the Gunners boss to not put too much pressure on him.
The former Arsenal striker believes Arteta should bring in another creator this month to share the burden. He claims that it will be dangerous to rely on the youngster alone, and he is spot on.
Thomas said: “It is great what Smith Rowe is doing,” he said. “He’s a player who doesn’t show fear and knows the quality he can bring to the team, whilst showing the work ethic and willingness to keep improving we need at Arsenal.”
“I still think they need another player in the creative mould with real quality as it’s always dangerous to rely on just one.”
Thomas is absolutely right
Smith Rowe, over the last few games, has shown that he can handle the pressure. He held his own against a World Cup winner in N’Golo Kante and there is no doubt that he has a very bright future.
However, the Englishman, labelled ‘an incredible talent‘ by Arteta, is still only 20. He hasn’t had one full season at the top level yet and it would not be wise to rely completely on his creativity for the remainder of this season.
Arteta and Edu have to bring in an established number 10 this month. Smith Rowe should be given time to progress to the top level and making him learn from an experienced attacking midfielder is the best thing for his development.
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