says he is excited about Arsenal’s summer recruitment drive and does not fear competition from , while he has praised incoming team-mate .
The 22-year-old endured a difficult campaign last season despite the Gunners’ title charge with a groin injury limiting him to just 14 appearances in all competitions, all of which came off the bench.
He has shone during the European Under-21 Championship for , however, netting twice, and will be hopeful of contributing more back at Arsenal in the 2023-24 campaign despite growing links with a move away.
Smith Rowe’s first-team opportunities could be even more limited following the from Chelsea, but the Croydon-born youngster is ready to fight for his place in the team.
‘I see what happens and obviously it’s good for the club to add strength to the team,’ Smith Rowe told while away on international duty.
‘I feel like the additions we’re making are going to really help the team progress again. It’s really exciting so hopefully we can go one step further next season.
‘Of course (it is extra competition with Havertz arrival), but this is football. You’ve just got to get on with it.
‘I’ve got to keep working hard and it’s healthy competition. I’ve got to keep fighting.’
In addition to signing Havertz, Arsenal are also on the verge of announcing a after agreeing a fee with West Ham last week – though the two clubs are still negotiating the structure of the transfer.
Smith Rowe has trained alongside Rice with the senior England team and is a massive fan of his compatriot, revealing how he wowed in training with the Three Lions.
‘I can’t speak highly enough of him,’ continued the Arsenal star. ‘I remember my first camp and I was surprised with how good he actually was.
‘He was the best in training. Just his level, intensity, technically, everything he was doing. A real leader and still so young. He was really, really good.’
The Gunners’ new additions have prompted talk about where Smith Rowe will fit in at Arsenal next season and he says he will speak to Mikel Arteta when he returns to London Colney about his position going forward.
‘I did see a lot of talk about my position but I’m not really sure what they think,’ he explained. ‘I’m happy to play anywhere. Maybe it is inside, maybe it’s wide. I’ll be having that conversation when I get back.’
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