Arsenal verdict: Smith Rowe shows Arteta why he MUST start and Gunners need to keep hold of Saka amid Liverpool interest

HE’S had a rough few weeks has Arsenal’s top scorer this season Emile Smith Rowe, but today he was back to his absolute best.

Back in the Gunners XI in place of suspended Gabriel Martinelli, Smith Rowe showed Arsenal fans what they’d been missing with a rousing performance in against Brentford in North London.

Smith Rowe and Saka both scored in a 2-1 win over BrentfordCredit: EPA

Smith Rowe was in electric form today for Arsenal at the EmiratesCredit: Reuters

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The 21-year-old looked in electric form to start the game, just as his fellow Gunners starlet Bukayo Saka did.

But it was Smith Rowe who broke the game’s tight deadlock just after the start of the second-half after collecting the ball five yards past the halfway line.

That didn’t deter Smith Rowe, who marauded forward with the ball at his feet before cutting inside and placing a fine finish into the far corner.

Saka was next to join the party, as with just 10 minutes to go, he took Thomas Partey’s forward pass in his stride before crashing the ball in off the inside of the post.

To the tune of Rockin’ All Over The World by Status Quo, the Arsenal faithful began belting out the names of both goal-scorers.

Smith Rowe was a permanent fixture in Arsenal’s XI before a groin injury partially derailed his season at the end of the year.

Arsenal had to cling on to the win after Brentford scored late onCredit: EPA

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Martinelli came in and showed promise to begin with, but over the past few weeks has struggled to assert himself in the final third.

The Brazilian was then sent off in Arsenal’s 1-0 win over Wolves last week, showing immaturity and naiveness in what should have been a comfortable second half for his side.

His petulance made it anything but, for Arteta’s men.

Arsenal and England fans were high on Smith Rowe’s potential to start the season, and today he repaid their faith with a performance which should command the attention of Arteta.

He harried, hustled and bombarded the football forward at every opportunity, never deterring from the chance to drive into space.

Saka will also be on the minds of Arsenal fans tonight, having been linked with a summer move to Liverpool over the past few weeks.

Smith Rowe scored on his first start for Arsenal in the league in weeksCredit: EPA

He took the game by the scruff of the neck from minute one and eventually got his rewards with a menacing finish to seal the three points.

Arteta must now get knocking on director of football Edu’s door at London Colney with one simple demand: Keep Saka.

Liverpool are expected to come in hot for the signature of one of England’s most promising players in just three months’ time.

Saka has been linked with a move to Liverpool in the summerCredit: PA

Arsenal have historically, certainly in recent times, been heralded as a selling club.

It’s finally time to shed themselves of that unwanted tag. With both Saka and Smith Rowe in their side, the beating heart of the club is already present.

And fans will want it to stay that way.

Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk

Arsenal verdict: Smith Rowe shows Arteta why he MUST start and Gunners need to keep hold of Saka amid Liverpool interest

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