Emile Smith Rowe completed 90 minutes and provided an assist for the Arsenal u21s against Northampton Town on Tuesday, though he did miss a penalty in the shootout.

As Smith Rowe continues his slow but steady recovery from injury, he’s been getting minutes with the u23s/u21s over the last couple of weeks.

Against Northampton Town in the EFL Trophy he had one of his biggest tests yet, with the plan to give him 90 minutes against senior opposition.

Smith Rowe had a chance or two in the first half, but ended up having to apply himself just as often defensively, with Northampton pushing for the opening goal.

The midfielder’s task was made even more difficult when Arsenal were reduced to 10 men an hour into the match. Tobi Omole, who had come off the bench as a substitute, picked up two yellow cards either side of half-time.

Despite the setback, Smith Rowe set James Olayinka up for the opening goal, though the lead only lasted four minutes.

The 19-year-old had one more late chance, but the game went to penalties, where unfortunately he missed one as Arsenal lost 4-3. The team still picked up a point for being level at the end of the regular match.

Even though the penalty miss will be a bit disappointing for Smith Rowe, getting through 90 minutes and providing an assist are clearly big positives for him. It’s looking more and more likely he’ll be available for the League Cup action next month, or even the Europa League group stage depending on the draw.