Emile Smith Rowe is pleased with Arsenal's summer signing and has no fear of competition from Kai Havertz as he lauds new team-mate Declan Rice. The 22-year-old endured a difficult season last term, despite the Gunners' title bid with a groin injury which has kept him from making just 14 appearances in all competitions, all of which started on the bench.
However, he shone with two goals for England in the European Under-21 Championship and is hoping to contribute more to Arsenal in 2023/24, although reports of a move are growing.
Smith Rowe's first-team opportunities may be even more limited after Havertz joined from Chelsea for £65m, but the Croydon-born youngster is ready to fight for his place in the team. "I can see what's happening and it's obviously good for the club to strengthen the squad," Smith Rowe told The Sun during his international appearances.
"I feel the additions we've made will really help the team progress again. It's very exciting and we look forward to going even further next season.
“Of course (it's extra competition from Havertz's arrival), but that's football. You just have to keep going. “I have to keep working hard and it's healthy competition. "I have to keep fighting."
As well as signing Havertz, Arsenal is also close to announcing a £105m deal for Declan Rice after agreeing on a transfer fee with West Ham last week - although the two clubs are still finalizing the structure of transfer negotiations.
Smith Rowe trained with Rice with the England senior team and is a huge fan of his compatriot. He expressed how impressed he was training with the Three Lions. "I can't praise him enough," continued the Arsenal star. “I remember my first camp and was shocked at how good it actually was.
"He is the best in training. Just his level, his intensity, his technique, everything he does. A true leader and still very young. He is very, very good.
The Gunners' signing has sparked talk of where Smith Rowe would fit in at Arsenal next season and he says he will speak to Mikel Arteta when he returns to London Colney about his future position.
"I've seen a lot of conversations about my position, but I'm not sure what they think," he explained. "I'm happy to play anywhere. Maybe indoors, maybe wide. "I'll talk about it when I get back."
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