Arsenal’s midfield woes deepen after another injury setback

The Premier League leaders have suffered an early blow on their return from the international break.

Arsenal have ruled Emile Smith Rowe out of action until December at the earliest.

The 22-year-old midfielder recently had surgery on a damaged tendon in his groin. According to Arsenal’s official statement, the injury restricted his training and game time this season.

Arsenal added that the operation was a success and that Smith Rowe has begun rehabilitation.

The Hale End product has been a prominent part of Mikel Arteta’s side since the manager replaced Unai Emery in December 2019, having made 73 of his 86 first-team appearances under the Spaniard.

This season, however, Smith Rowe hasn’t started a single game. The England international has come off the bench four times, the last of which came in the 3-1 defeat to Manchester United on September 4.

Arsenal could now be without three central midfielders for Saturday’s north London derby against Tottenham as Mohamed Elneny is out and Thomas Partey remains a doubt.