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Arteta has revealed Smith Rowe personally asked for the No 10

Arteta has revealed Smith Rowe personally asked for the No 10. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed that Emile Smith Rowe personally asked for the No 10 shirt for next season.

         The 20-year-old recently signed a new contract with the club after the club turned down an offer from Aston Villa, with Arteta saying he was relieved that he had finally managed to extend his contract.

         “I think he deserves a new contract. He has every right to be in the position the club has to accept this award for what he has done. He shows his commitment to the club,” Arteta told Arsenal Media.

         “So when a relationship is formed the way it is. That’s a powerful and strong message for everyone. We need it and I’m thirsty, a player [talented] who plays with passion and Emile fits everything.

         Meanwhile, Arteta revealed that Smith Rowe had personally requested the number 10 shirt, which is worn by several former team players. Including Dennis Bergkamp and Robin van Pere. Marcy and Mesut Ozil

        “He requested (the number 10 shirt) which shows his ambition and desire. I like the players who request more than they can. But if they believe they can don’t limit it When he asked me and asked the club if I wanted [that number], OK, go ahead.”

         “We talked a little bit. We talked and he knew the consequences. But he felt ready to do it and he was prepared for it. I will always support him and try to make him as comfortable and happy as possible in what he wants to do.”