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Chris Waddle wowed by Arsenal gem’s Europa League heroics, says he ‘can only get better’
Arsenal midfielder Emile Smith Rowe has been described by Chris Waddle as a “very good player” who can only get better.
The 20-year-old has been one of the biggest success stories for the Gunners this season, never looking back after making his breakthrough at the end of last year.
Smith Rowe has had to bide his time at the Emirates Stadium, with just two Premier League appearances prior to last Christmas.
However, Mikel Arteta named him in the starting XI against Chelsea on Boxing Day – his full Premier League debut – and the rest is history.
And on Thursday night, Smith Rowe delivered arguably his best performance in red and white as Arsenal coasted into the Europa League semi-finals at the expense of Slavia Prague.
He linked the play brilliantly, looking a cut above in terms of his reading of the game and quality of the ball.
Smith Rowe was unlucky to have a goal chalked off for offside, but he went on to provide a brilliant assist for Nicolas Pepe.
Commentating on BBC Radio 5 Live, Waddle said (): “Emile Smith Rowe has had a good game.
“He is a very good player – he runs with the ball well and he can spot a pass. He can only get better.”
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Following Bukayo Saka’s stellar breakthrough last season, Smith Rowe has become the latest Hale End star to break into the senior team and have a major impact.
He was virtually unplayable on Thursday night and, like Saka, it’s exciting to see just how much he will progress in the next few years.