Glenn Hoddle has claimed that Arsenal’s Emile Smith Rowe still needs to perform consistently before he can think about making the England squad in time for the European Champions.
The youngster has been a revelation for the Gunners this season with Mikel Arteta’s men remaining unbeaten in the five Premier League starts made by the 20-year-old.
Speaking in his Evening Standard column, the former Tottenham Hotspur manager believes the £2.43m-rated young gun’s forward-thinking has been a breath of fresh air.
Hoddle said: “I saw him come on in the Europa League a few years ago and I was very impressed with him. He was positive, he was very direct and he has been given a chance now. Long-term, they have five or six players who could go on and become top Arsenal players. Smith Rowe could be one of those without a doubt.”
“But it is one thing when you are a youngster to come into the team and do well. The real test for a player is can they keep that standard you have set? These kids have to maintain it – and that takes time.” (via Evening Standard)
Will Emile Smith Rowe make the Euros squad?
Yes
No
Smith Rowe’s consistent form over the last month or so has been part of the reason why the Gunners have climbed from 15th in the league table to 11th as they look to chase a top-four finish.
However, Hoddle’s right, consistency is key for the ace in his chase for a place in the England squad. The England youth international has only been performing for 10 first-team games this season and despite his stellar displays, Mikel Arteta still thought it was key to go out and purchase another attacking midfield option in Martin Odegaard, showing his worries over the 20-year-old.
And with the Three Lions possessing a raft of talent in attack, it’s hard to see just how the Hale End academy product breaks through. The likes of James Maddison and Jack Grealish are sure to enter the squad as the attacking midfielders and with the Marcus Rashford, Raheem Sterling, Jadon Sancho all wide options, it’s a tough case to make for Smith Rowe making the squad.
The youngster has a bright future and is sure to make future England squads, however, with so many options in Gareth Southgate’s hands, it’s hard to see how he makes the Euros.
In other news, PSG are offering Arsenal a swap deal between these two players.
