'He needs to prove it': Arteta challenges Smith Rowe to reclaim starting spot

"He knows how much we love him and how much we missed him and how much we need his qualities," said Mikel Arteta when asked about Emile Smith Rowe's return to training.

"Now he needs to prove it. He needs to prove how much he wants to win and how much he's going to contribute to this team.

"To be better and to win and he's gonna have to show that to get on the team."

The Arsenal boss continued: "We have to manage his load but for sure, he's in a position where we can use him in the team at any moment.

"Then it's about how he's coping with the game in general and whether to take him off or use for the last few minutes."

Smith Rowe has returned after a lengthy injury lay-off and his presence will be a boost as the Gunners enter the final stages of the season.

He could get a few minutes of action against Sporting Lisbon in the Europa League later this Thursday.