How Arsenal could line-up against Oxford in FA Cup with Emile Smith Rowe finally set to return from injury lay-off
EMILE SMITH-ROWE could return for Arsenal when they travel to Oxford United in the FA Cup.
The Gunners suffered frustration in midweek when they were held to a stalemate by Newcastle at the Emirates.
That draw allowed Manchester City, who beat Chelsea on Thursday night, to close the gap on the Premier League leaders to just five points.
However, Mikel Arteta and his side’s focus switches from the top-flight to the FA Cup as they prepare to face League One Oxford on Monday.
And the Spaniard could have one of his young guns back to help bolster his ranks and allow him to rotate his side.
Smith Rowe, 22, is set to make his first Arsenal appearance in almost four months.
The attacker was hoping to return for the Newcastle game, but Arteta opted to give him more time rather than risk him.
And when asked about a comeback against Oxford, the boss said: “He’s made big steps in the last week.
“He took part in some training sessions and looked good. We’re hoping to have him back soon.”
But it still remains unclear on whether Reiss Nelson, who damaged his hamstring last month in a friendly against Juventus, will make it too.
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With the extra few days before kick off, that could allow Nelson enough time to prove his fitness for the clash but it is still believed the game will come too quickly for him.
A number of changes could also be made elsewhere, especially with Ben White coming off looking fatigued in midweek.
That could see Takehiro Tomiyasu, who replaced him two days ago, take his spot.
Reserve goalkeeper Matt Turner is also expected to get the nod in goal as Arteta looks to give some of his fringe and young players some much-needed game-time.