I had to leave Arsenal to be happy again - now I'm out to prove a point with Fulham

Arsenal academy graduate Emile Smith Rowe will return to Emirates Stadium tonight for the first time since joining Fulham on a permanent transfer. The 24-year-old endured a challenging last few seasons at the Gunners and it was, therefore, best for all parties that he moved on with the Cottagers picking up his services for £27million.

That deal could rise to £34million with add-ons likely to be performance-related and Smith Rowe got off to a great start in helping the Gunners earn that fee. In his first five games, Smith Rowe contributed three goals - with Fulham losing just once in their opening six matches.

Though Marco Silva's squad could not quite maintain that impressive start, they currently sit eighth in the Premier League table and they are in a good position to qualify for European football next season. Smith Rowe meanwhile, has struggled for consistency in the last few months.

Having played just 25 minutes off the bench in the FA Cup defeat to Crystal Palace this past weekend, he could be named from the off against his former club on Tuesday. However, with just under 2,000 minutes played this season, it is clear to see he has at least achieved his initial aim when it came to deciding to leave Arsenal.

"For the last two seasons, I haven't played as much as I wanted to and it was always in the back of my mind that I wanted to be happy again," he told The Telegraph.

"I wanted to be playing. Sometimes you have to think of the best for yourself.

"I always want to put my club first but, at the same time, I have to make myself happy, too. It was probably the toughest decision I've had to make (to leave). But I spoke to my family and we decided it was the best thing for me."

Smith Rowe continued: "I kind of just turn into a monster. I just try to let it all out. I just try to put in as good a performance as I can. I try to play every game as if it is my last. I just try to give everything for the team. That's important."

Having provided him with the chance to break into the senior squad, it is no surprise that former manager, Mikel Arteta, is full of praise for the attacking midfielder.

Asked during his pre-Fulham press conference about how good he can be, Arteta said: "Exceptional. I mean, he's got all the attributes to become a top, top footballer. And that consistency, especially with us, he was unable to, especially in the periods he had injuries. But tremendous quality."

Arteta will be hoping he does not show of those abilities on Tuesday with Arsenal in search of another victory in Premier League action.

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