'Bored' Smith Rowe set to return for Arsenal's next game

Emile Smith Rowe says it is 'boring' to have played such a small part in Arsenal's record start to a Premier League season, but he hopes to return for their next game.

The 22-year-old underwent surgery for a persistent groin injury in September and was ruled out until after the World Cup break.

Smith Rowe played 33 of Arsenal's 38 Premier League games last season (only three outfield players featured more regularly), but he's only played 48 minutes this season.

Arsenal lead the division with their highest points tally (37) after 14 games, five points ahead of Manchester City, and Smith Rowe is eager to get back into play.

The three-cap England international attended Saturday's qualifying session for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and provided an update on his rehabilitation.

"It's going very well at the moment," he told Sky Sports. "I'm really happy for the team but sometimes it's annoying when I don't feel involved, I can't be on the pitch.

"It's amazing to see them so well and I can't wait to come back. I hope to be back in the first game after the World Cup.

"I'm actually here [in Saudi Arabia] in rehab. Today was my day off and I'm going back to training tomorrow. I'm back on the pitch and it's all going well ."

Arsenal's first game after the five-week break is a home clash against West Ham on December 26, just eight days after the World Cup final.

Smith Rowe would have been in contention for a place in the England squad for Qatar if it weren't for his injury struggles this season, but he's backing his team-mates from afar.

"I really trust the team. Obviously we missed the last big tournament (Euro 2020) at the last minute," he said.

"I believe the boys will bring it home this time. The team is really strong and it looks good."