Arsenal Star Says He Feels ‘Really Desperate’ After Hitting Injury Lows

Arsenal winger Emile Smith Rowe has admitted to feeling desperate as he fights to regain his place in the Gunners team after struggles with injuries.

The 22-year-old had become a regular face in the team over the last two seasons, but his campaign has been hampered by groin surgery he underwent in September.

Smith Rowe faces tough competition for places in the Gunners squad, with players such asBukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard, Reiss Nelson, and Fabio Vieira all vying for spots.

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Despite the setback, Arsenal are currently at the top of the Premier League.

During the international break, Smith Rowe played with the England Under-21s and even scored in a 4-0 win over France.

This has provided some respite for the midfielder during a difficult time, as he continues to work hard to regain his place in Mikel Arteta’s plans.

‘I’m really desperate to be honest,’ Smith Rowe said. ‘The team are doing really well and it’s obviously something I want to be a part of. I’m working hard every day. Coming away with England is minutes that I really need. I’ve been struggling with this injury since I was 18 or 19, just before I went on loan to RB Leipzig.

‘I was quite low at the beginning. I’ve never had surgery before. It’s been tough, but I’m glad it’s all sorted now. I don’t feel any pain. I just need to kick on.’

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Speaking earlier this month,  Arsenal manager, Arteta said that the homegrown talent knows how much he is appreciated, but has work to do to get back into the team.

‘He knows how much we love him, and we know how much we missed him and how much we need his qualities,’ said the Spaniard.

‘And now he needs to prove it, he needs to prove how much he wants to win, and how much he’s going to contribute to this team to be better and win. And he’s going to have to show that to get in the team.

‘I think we have to manage his load, but for sure he’s in a position where we can throw him in the team at any moment.

‘And then it’s about how he’s coping with the team in general and whether we have to take him off or to use him in the last few minutes of the game.’