'He's close': Mikel Arteta provides injury update on Arsenal attacker

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has said that Emile Smith Rowe could be involved in the Europa League meeting against Olympiacos on Thursday.

The 20-year-old picked up a hip injury during the Premier League triumph at Leicester City last month and he subsequently missed the Burnley trip.

The Gunners face Olympiacos in the first leg of the Europa League last 16 tomorrow and ahead of the game, Arteta has provided a positive injury update.

Smith Rowe could be included in tomorrow's matchday squad depending on his response after today's first-team training session.

"Yes, he’s close to returning and he’s going to have a full session today to see if he can be involved in tomorrow’s game. After training we will know exactly where we are with him," He told Arsenal.com.

Smith Rowe was almost ever-present for the Gunners in the Premier League this year until he sustained the untimely setback against the Foxes.

The Gunners have a quality replacement in Martin Odegaard in their ranks, but will be hoping that Smith Rowe is available for selection.