Arsenal parted ways with popular midfielder Emile Smith Rowe in the summer transfer window, and he is now thriving at Fulham.
Smith Rowe was an academy graduate, who initially became a key player in the side alongside Bukayo Saka, but after a few years of struggle for injuries and form, he left in search of a fresh start.
Arsenal made a huge sale as Smith Rowe joined Fulham, and the 24-year-old has been able to revitalise his career, as he already has more goals and assists than he managed in the whole of last season.
The midfielder’s Arsenal form as a youngster was so good that he even earned a call-up to the England squad, but it is now nearly three years since he was part of the National Team squad.
Arsenal icon Paul Merson has now claimed that Smith Rowe has every chance of returning to the England squad despite stiff competition.
Smith Rowe’s departure can be compared to that of Merson in 1997, who left for regular minutes as Arsenal upgraded their squad, and he has been praised by another former number 10.
- READ MORE: Emile Smith Rowe’s best moments at Arsenal
Paul Merson believes in Emile Smith Rowe England return
Merson has now told Sportskeeda that if Smith Rowe keeps up his current form at Fulham, he can return to the England team soon, but he must stay fit.
“Emile Smith Rowe has done really well since joining Fulham,” Merson claimed.
“He lost his way a bit at Arsenal with all the injuries and lack of playing time. If he keeps playing regularly, he will prove to be a brilliant signing for Fulham.
“He’s someone who chases lost causes and has a footballing brain. All he has to do now is stay fit and he’ll soon be back in the England squad.”
Why Emile Smith Rowe left Arsenal
Smith Rowe started just five Premier League games in the last two seasons for Arsenal after injuries derailed his progress, and he fell down the pecking order under Mikel Arteta.
Another season on the fringes of the squad would have set Smith Rowe back even further, and lowered his transfer value.
Arsenal earned pure profit which allowed them to sign Mikel Merino, and Smith Rowe earned a move to a Premier League side where he will be a key figure and play regularly.
If he can get back to his best form, Smith Rowe could return to the England squad, but this would not have been a possibility at Arsenal.
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