Aston Villa continue to be linked with Emile Smith Rowe despite Arsenal’s reluctance to sell the attacking midfielder. Villa have already strengthened Dean Smith’s squad with the signings of Emiliano Buendia – who was an Arsenal target – and Ashley Young but owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens aren’t done yet in the transfer market. Nevertheless the 20-year-old ended the campaign with only 18 top-flight starts to his name and former Arsenal midfielder Michael Thomas believes he must play a bigger role next term.
Michael Thomas said: “ESR is definitely growing as a player and in character but I still think he needs some more game time with Arsenal and his progression needs to be managed carefully. Also, having the players is all well and good but if they’re not going to play in the system the manager wants then it won’t matter.”
It has been claimed that Villa could return with a third bid for Smith Rowe but Arteta insisted last week the playmaker will be staying at the Emirates.
Mikel Arteta said: “Without a question. Yes. He will stay here. 100 percent.”
