Fulham manager Alvaro Arbeloa addresses Emile Smith Rowe absence

Fulham manager Alvaro Arbeloa has clarified that Emile Smith Rowe’s absence from the club’s 1-0 EFL Cup defeat to Crystal Palace was a selection decision rather than an injury. Despite Fulham controlling 74% possession and registering 14 shots, Eddie Nketiah’s first-half goal secured the win for the Eagles.

Arbeloa noted the difficulty of managing a large squad, stating that Smith Rowe and another player, Kevin, must remain patient to earn opportunities. Smith Rowe, who was a regular starter under previous manager Marco Silva, has yet to make a Premier League start this season and has been omitted from recent matchday squads. Arbeloa emphasized that players must continue working hard to compete for positions within the current roster.