‘It’s been frustrating’: Arsenal star admits current Premier League campaign has been the ‘toughest season’ of his career

Arsenal star Emile Smith Rowe has admitted that the current Premier League season has been the “toughest” of his career so far.

The 22-year-old has made just nine top-flight appearances so far, starting just once as he suffered a long-term groin injury and even underwent surgery that prolonged his absence.

In a recent interview with Sky Sports, Smith Rowe revealed that it has been a difficult period for him and admitted that the 2022-23 league season has been the most challenging of his career.

He said (via GOAL):

“He’s been a tough man. Definitely the toughest season of my career so far. It’s been frustrating, but I’m happy with where the team is at the moment.”

However, the midfielder has now recovered from his woes and is expected to play a role in the Arsenal encounter despite facing an uphill battle to regain his position in their starting XI.

Head coach Mikel Arteta has previously praised Smith Rowe’s versatility, while insisting he can play in midfield or on the wings or even as number 9, meaning we could see the England international operate from any of those positions if given the opportunity.

Arsenal take on West Ham United on Sunday at London Stadium in the Premier League.

Arsenal only three points above Manchester City in the Premier League

Arsenal’s draw against Liverpool last weekend allowed Manchester City to reduce the gap at the top to just three points with just eight games remaining in the 2022-23 season.

What’s also worth noting is that the two will meet at the Etihad on April 26 in a potential title decider.

The Gunners are looking to end their drought and lift their fourth Premier League crown in 19 years, while City are bidding to become only the second team in the competition’s history to win the title three years in a row.

Given how close the race is, every game here is a final for these sides, with one slip up that turns the whole race on its head, as we have another exciting matchup on our hands.