EPL: Arsenal’s Smith Rowe out till December after groin surgery

Arsenal midfielder Emile Smith Rowe will spend at least a month on the sidelines after having surgery on a groin injury.

Arsenal say they hope the 22-year-old and will return to training in December.

So far, Smith Rowe has had four brief substitute outings this season.

In the last of those, which was a defeat at Manchester United, he suffered “a significant setback”.

“In recent months, Emile Smith Rowe has been experiencing discomfort in his groin, which has limited his training and match appearances,” said Arsenal.

“Following a significant setback at our Premier League match against Manchester United at Old Trafford on 4 September, and after further specialist consultations and discussions with our medical team, Emile underwent surgery to repair a damaged tendon in his groin.

“This successful surgery took place in London in the past few days and Emile’s rehabilitation programme is already under way.

“We are hopeful that Emile will return to full training in December.”