Mikel Arteta's plans for Emile Smith Rowe appear to be underway after the England international scored his country's second goal against the Czech Republic at the European Under-21 Championship on Thursday.
Smith Rowe had an extremely unlucky season at the Emirates last season, in which he played only a minimal role in the Gunners' impressive championship journey.
He suffered a groin injury in September during Arsenal's 1-3 loss to Manchester United and subsequently required surgery.
Returning to form, the 22-year-old failed to return to the starting line-up as Fabio Vieira and Reiss Nelson were leading him in the starting order.
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His lack of game time has led to much speculation about his future in north London, with Aston Villa believed to be among a number of clubs considering a move for the midfielder. However, a report from The Athletic quickly quashed those rumors and Arteta is said to be expecting Smith Rowe to play a key role for Arsenal next season.
Smith Rowe has since played a key role in England's opening goal against the Czech Republic, coming on as a substitute to double the home side's advantage in stoppage time, and in doing so. So, he's working on the blueprint from Arteta.
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Smith Rowe Proves Arteta Right
Speaking last month, transfer expert David Ornstein told The Athletic that the European Championship will be a key part of his recovery in Arsenal's starting line-up.
"Hopefully he will be a key player for England at the European Under-21 Championship later this summer before returning to form and form next season," Ornstein revealed. Although he didn't start for Lee Carsley's team on Thursday night, he performed well internationally and could well start the game against Israel on Sunday.
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Substitute Cameron Archer passed the ball to Smith Rowe in the penalty area, who calmly finished bringing England to the top of Group C.
So far, Arteta has been right about his decision to keep number 1. 10 in Arsenal's books. However, the impending arrival of Kai Havertz from Chelsea could be a significant obstacle to Smith Rowe's return to the starting lineup.
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