Injury expert Ben Dinnery has hinted that Emile Smith Rowe could make his Arsenal return in the FA Cup next week.

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The Englishman has been absent for most of this season with an injury he picked up in September, but could be set for a highly anticipated return to action as the league leaders begin their FA Cup campaign away to Oxford United.

Arsenal face Newcastle in the Premier League before then, but that game might come too soon for the 21-year-old, who will aim to make a huge impact in the second half of the season.

Speaking on the Premier FPL Injuries YouTube channel, Dinnery - who features on Sky Sports - explained when Smith Rowe could return.

"Emile Smith Rowe, back in more or less fully with the group, but I think maybe the FA Cup is a more realistic opportunity for him to get minutes within that team."

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Smith Rowe's return will be a welcome boost for Mikel Arteta as the Gunners seek to maintain their lead at the top of the Premier League table.

He faces a battle to fight his way into the starting XI when considering the excellent form of Gabriel Martinelli and Martin Odegaard, but he can provide attacking output off the bench and quality depth while Arsenal aim to compete on multiple fronts.

The England international scored 11 goals in all competitions last season and the 22-year-old has been a shining light in the Arsenal side which has made so much progress under Mikel Arteta.

Able to play on either wing or in midfield, Arteta has even talked about his ability to play as a false nine, and it remains to be seen whether this will be considered in the absence of Gabriel Jesus.