Emile Smith Rowe admitted that striker Alexandre Lacazette has played a key role in his recent run of fine form following Arsenal's 3-0 win over Newcastle United at the Emirates Stadium.
Smith Rowe, who spent time on loan at Championship side Huddersfield Town last season, started his fifth Premier League game in a row on Monday evening, with Mikel Arteta - the Gunners manager - continuing to install a great amount of trust in the youngster.
The former RB Leipzig loanee was drafted into the side for the Boxing Day win over Chelsea as Arteta searched a winning formula. Since then, the youngster has not looked back, playing a key role in the Gunners' recent upturn in fortunes.
Against the Magpies, Smith Rowe claimed his third assist in his last five Premier League appearances, setting up Bukayo Saka to claim the Gunners' second goal of the night, in between Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's brace.
After the full-time whistle, Smith Rowe was put up in front of the media to deliver his verdict on his and his team-mates' performances.
During the interview, Smith Rowe was asked which player within the Gunners squad had played such a big role in his rise to fame, with the youngster picking out Frenchman Lacazette for special praise.
“I can’t cancel out anyone, but playing together with Lacazette, it helps me up the pitch, it gives me so much confidence," Smith Rowe told Sky Sports.
"Like I said, as we link up and play together, he talks to me a lot.
"I’d probably say he’s spoken to me the most off the pitch."
As well as paying credit to Lacazette, Smith Rowe also thanked Arteta for putting so much faith and trust in him.
“I’ve been a bit unfortunate with injuries and stuff but the manager has given me a chance and I’m so grateful," Smith Rowe continued. "I just hope to repay him and every opportunity I’m getting, I just want to show him I’m good enough to be in this team.
“I think that’s been massive. I’ve been abroad and I’ve been in the Championship. I feel like it’s developed me so much, on and off the pitch.
"I feel like I’ve grown and matured into a much stronger and confident person. So, I feel like they’ve definitely helped me in my journey."
