Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta provides update on Emile Smith Rowe ahead of Brentford clash

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided an update on the fitness of Emile Smith Rowe ahead of their crucial Premier League encounter with Brentford.

The highly rated Hale End academy product has been sidelined for the majority of the 2022/23 season with a persistent groin injury, but made a return to the first-team fold in January for their FA Cup third round fixture against Oxford.

However, his comeback was short-lived as a thigh strain saw him miss the subsequent cup tie against Manchester City and the league defeat to Everton.

Arsenal brought in reinforcements in the January transfer window with the acquisition of Leandro Trossard, which has somewhat alleviated the injury crisis in attack.

Despite the recent setbacks, Arteta has revealed that the club’s attacking options are gradually improving, with the likes of Reiss Nelson, Gabriel Jesus and Smith Rowe all making progress in their respective recoveries.

The Gunners’ boss stated in his pre-match press conference: “Reiss, Gabi and Emile, who have been out for a long time, are getting closer. They have started doing some work outside, but they are not ready to contribute just yet.”

However, Arteta confirmed that Smith Rowe will not be available for selection for the Brentford fixture this weekend.