Arsenal starlet Emile Smith Rowe has opened up about the arrival of Kai Havertz in north London.
Smith Rowe endured a difficult 2022/23 campaign, playing less than 200 minutes across all competitions during a season plagued by injury. The Hale End academy graduate underwent surgery on a long-term groin issue before sustaining a thigh strain just as he was coming back to full fitness.
When he did finally return to action, he found himself low down Mikel Arteta's pecking order, often reduced to late cameos from the substitutes bench. The talented playmaker may find minutes even more difficult to come by next season due to the arrival of Havertz during this summer's transfer window.
The German international is capable of operating as an attacking midfielder or as a false nine, the former of which is Smith Rowe best role but the 22-year-old has admitted he is merely excited at the prospect of additional competition for minutes. When asked about the north London club's transfer activity, he told the Sun: “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.
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“Of course (it is extra competition with Havertz 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.”
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