Emile Smith Rowe has revealed he had to overcome a fear of playing in front of crowds.
Arsenal midfielder Emile Smith Rowe has revealed he had to overcome a fear of playing in front of crowds as he broke into the Arsenal first-team.
The youngster earned his first senior England call-up this week after Marcus Rashford and James Ward-Prowse pulled out due to injury.
Smith Rowe made his first League start under Mikel Arteta and only the second of his career in a 3-1 win over Chelsea on Boxing Day last year, since when he established himself as a regular, signed a new five-year contract and taken over the No. 10 shirt previously worn by Mesut Ozil.
The midfielder admitted he inadvertently benefitted from the absence of fans due to COVID-19 restrictions at the time because of a fear dating back to his formative days prior to a difficult loan spell at Red Bull Leipzig in the first half of 2019.
“It was a big game but no fans definitely helped me,” he said. “I’m always really nervous before the game and not having that pressure of everyone shouting, that helped me a lot. I’m happy with the way things are going.
“I’m quite surprised to be honest that it’s worked out this way. I thought I wouldn’t be as confident as I am at the moment. It’s always extra special playing at the Emirates anyway.
“Maybe two seasons ago, just before I went to Leipzig, it was affecting to me. I think now I’m OK. I haven’t really changed anything.
“I think I’m always really nervous before a game. Maybe it helps, maybe it’s a good thing. It’s mainly in the changing room before the game. That’s when I’m most nervous. I have spoken to some players and that say the same as well.”
