Emile Smith Rowe out until after World Cup as Arsenal star undergoes surgery for long-term groin injury

Emile Smith Rowe will be out for Arsenal until at least December, the club have announced.

The England international midfielder has endured a disjointed campaign so far due to a groin injury which has limited him to just four appearances for Mikel Arteta’s side.

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The 22-year-old’s last game was the clash with Manchester United at Old Trafford earlier this month, a game they lost 3-1.

After what the club described as “a significant setback” against Erik ten Hag’s side, Smith Rowe underwent surgery on a damaged tendon in his groin.

The operation was successful but means the midfielder will be out for a few months and won’t return to full training until December.

A statement on the Arsenal website said: “For the past few months, Emile Smith Rowe has experienced discomfort in his groin which has limited his training and match appearances.

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

“This successful operation has taken place in London for the past few days and Emile’s rehabilitation program is already underway. We expect Emile to return to full training in December.

“Everyone at the club will now support and work hard with Emile to get him back on the pitch as soon as possible.”

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Smith Rowe is considered one of the most talented players on Arsenal’s books, having scored 18 goals and provided nine assists in 86 appearances for the Gunners.

He has won three caps for England but is unlikely to have made his way into the squad for the World Cup this winter, which starts on November 20.

With the Premier League suspended on November 12 and 13, Smith Rowe’s first return for Arsenal is Boxing Day when West Ham travel to the Emirates.