Arsenal midfielder Emile Smith Rowe has been ruled out until after the World Cup after undergoing groin surgery.
Smith Rowe enjoyed a fine campaign for the Gunners last term, scoring ten times in 33 Premier League starts and making his England debut.
However, the 22-year-old has been experiencing “discomfort in his groin” for several months, which has contributed to him featuring just four times for Mikel Arteta’s side so far this term, all in brief substitute cameos.
The club have now confirmed that Smith Rowe has undergone surgery and will not return to full training until December.
The Premier League breaks for the World Cup in mid-November and does not return until Boxing Day, which now looks the earliest date the academy graduate could return.
— Emile Smith Rowe (@emilesmithrowe) September 29, 2022
A club statement explained: “Following a significant setback at our Premier League match against Manchester United at Old Trafford on September 4, and after further specialist consultations and discussions with our medical team, Emile underwent surgery to repair a damaged tendon in his groin.
“This successful surgery took place in London in the past few days and Emile’s rehabilitation programme is already underway. We are hopeful that Emile will return to full training in December.
“Everyone at the club will now be supporting and working hard with Emile to get him back on the pitch as soon as possible.”
