Mikel Arteta must now drop Emile Smith Rowe for ‘intelligent’ Arsenal star vs Liverpool

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Arsenal face Liverpool tomorrow in a crucial game in the Premier League title race, and Mikel Arteta may have to make an unpopular decision.

Emile Smith Rowe came in for a rare start on Tuesday night against Nottingham Forest, much to the delight of the Arsenal fanbase, and Arteta was full of praise for him after, describing his display as “beautiful.”

However, despite the 23-year-old’s encouraging performance, and rightful calls for him to be given more game time, there is a strong case to be made that he should now drop to the bench for the game against Liverpool.

Arsenal head into that game knowing that a loss will almost certainly put an end to their title hopes, and are seeking revenge after Liverpool won at the Emirates in January to knock them out of the FA Cup.

Arteta needs to make one change to his XI for Liverpool

Arsenal performed well in their victory over Nottingham Forest, but it did take a long time before Gabriel Jesus found the breakthrough in what was a dominant performance.

However, Liverpool pose a different threat, and the recent FA Cup game saw Arsenal perform well in possession, but miss several chances.

Arteta tweaked his midfield, and Declan Rice lined up in a pivot with veteran Jorginho. The Italian was superb despite the defeat, helping control the tempo of the game whilst progressing the ball well.

The 32-year-old should now come in again, with Arsenal lining up in a similar way to their FA Cup defeat, but with Gabriel Jesus upfront instead of Kai Havertz.

Jorginho could play vital role for Arsenal again

Dropping Smith Rowe to the bench would be a shame, but this game may come too soon before he is back to full sharpness, and Jorginho would add extra experience and composure to the team in a high-pressure match.

Arteta has described him as the most “intelligent” player he has worked with, and he can keep a cool head in the middle whilst also supporting the attack with his long-range passing.

Jorginho made his first start of the season against Manchester City in October, and was vital to the narrow 1-0 victory which saw Arsenal remain defensively resolute and composed in their buildup.

Should more attacking threat be needed, Smith Rowe can be used off the bench, but a pivot of Jorginho and Rice alongside Martin Odegaard may be the best way to ensure Arsenal react to the events of the game without losing their heads, whilst also keeping control of the ball.