Bring it on! Emile Smith Rowe unfazed by Kai Havertz's arrival at Arsenal

PREMIER LEAGUE Bring it on! Emile Smith Rowe unfazed by Kai Havertz's arrival at Arsenal

Mark Kinyanjui 12:16 - 09.07.2023

The Arsenal academy graduate was forced to spend most of last season on the treatment table, and while Havertz could oust him from Arteta's plans, he is excited by the arrival of his new team-mate.

While a new star signing rejoices supporters, it can occasionally raise questions in the dressing room over whose place is under threat.

In this case, it is academy product Emile Smith Rowe, whose future has been cast in doubt following Kai Havertz’s arrival at Arsenal.

The German became Mikel Arteta's first signing of the summer after sealing a £65million move from cross-city rivals Chelsea and is targeting a starting role in midfield.

However, while his arrival, alongside Declan Rice who is edging closer to joining Arsenal after a £105m fee was agreed, provides more competition in the Gunners' ranks, Emile Smith Rowe is up for the challenge.

The Arsenal academy graduate was forced to spend most of last season on the treatment table, and while Havertz could oust him from Arteta's plans, he is excited by the arrival of his new team-mate.

Smith Rowe won the u21 European Championship with England on Saturday night, having played a pivotal role in the side’s success.

The three-cap England international scored two goals and got an assist in six appearances, which have helped restore his match sharpness and confidence after a long time out with injury.

"I see what happens and obviously, it's good for the club to add strength to the team. I feel like the additions we're making are going to really help the team progress again. It's really exciting so hopefully, we can go one step further next season. 

Of course (it is extra competition with Havertz's arrival), but this is football. You've just got to get on with it. I've got to keep working hard and it's healthy competition. I've got to keep fighting," he told The Sun. 

Arsenal want to bolster their ranks after enduring another trophyless year that saw them agonizingly slip up in the Premier League title race against Manchester City.

They were also knocked out of the Europa League, FA Cup, and Carabao Cup as all hopes were pinned on a first league crown in almost 20 years.

Havertz was the club's first marquee signing of the summer transfer window and more are expected with the signings of Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber also imminent.

Smith Rowe meanwhile will be hoping that he can rediscover the form that led to him becoming one of Arsenal's brightest talents alongside Bukayo Saka when he returns for pre-season.

A groin injury significantly hampered his game-time last season and Arteta then decided to opt for other forwards over the 22-year-old during the end-of-season run-in.

However, his future for the meantime appears safe with the club reportedly keen to continue Smith Rowe's development, even as they prepare for more incomings

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