Mikel Arteta hailed Emile Smith Rowe for his starring showing in Arsenal’s comfortable victory against Luton.
The Gunners’ academy graduate was handed a rare start against the Hatters as Arteta opted for rotation. It was just Smith Rowe’s 16th appearance in all this season - and third start in the Premier League.
He showed no signs of rust. The 23-year-old played a vital role in both Arsenal goals and scooped the man-of-the-match award.
Speaking after the game, Arteta was full of praise for the playmaker. He said: “I think a lot. I love him as a player. It’s a joy to watch him how he moves, how he changes how physical he was as well today. He’s a joy to watch. Today he helped us a lot to win the game.”
The Spaniard added: "I was really impressed with him. He has been training really well and we felt the game could suit us. Really pleased for the boys who came in. It is a busy month, we have started well again after an international break and next is Brighton."
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Elsewhere, Smith Rowe was also delighted with his contributions after a long stint out of the side. Speaking to TNT Sport, the midfielder said: “I’ve really enjoyed myself tonight.
“It’s been a long time since I’ve started. It’s been a tough season for me. I’m delighted with the start and the 3 points as well.”
Emile Smith Rowe shone against Luton (Getty Images)Should Emile Smith Rowe start against Brighton this weekend? Share your thoughts in the comments below
Smith Rowe was not the only surprise name on the teamsheet for the Gunners. Fellow academy graduate Reiss Nelson was also included, while Thomas Partey was handed a rare start.
Explaining why he chose to refresh his side, Arteta said: "We managed to rotate and freshen the team up a bit. Those who came in did really, really well.
"We scored two very good goals and in the second half, credit to Luton they are a really good side and difficult to play against but overall a win and another clean sheet and in a couple of days we play again.
"To have a squad they have to play. We have to make those decisions. The contribution they make to the team was very good. Now we recover and go again because we have Brighton away."
Arsenal’s win against Luton leaves them top of the Premier League, albeit for only potentially 24 hours. The Gunners’ title rivals Liverpool take on Sheffield United at Anfield on Thursday night.
Arteta’s side will be aiming to make it back-to-back victories this weekend against Brighton. They then take on German giants Bayern Munich in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final showdown.
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