England head coach Gareth Southgate has hinted that Arsenal winger Emile Smith Rowe was in intention to receive a World Cup call-up prior to his surgery in September.
Smith Rowe has been forced to watch his teammates take the Premier League season by storm in the stands after having surgery to repair a damaged tendon in his groin. The Hale End academy product has only made four appearances all season after enjoying an eye-catching campaign last term with 11 goals in 37 appearances.
The 22-year-old is due to return to full training next month ahead of the return of domestic football on Boxing Day. However, following Thursday's England World Cup squad announcement, there is expected to be a feeling of what could have been inside Smith Rowe's mind.
