Arsenal midfielder Emile Smith Rowe admits he's long been confused why his name reads as it does.
The unusual lack of hyphen in his double-barrelled surname has caught out many journalists, let alone fans waxing lyrical about the wonderkid on social media.
Smith Rowe told The Sun: “I'm not too bothered by it, to be honest. I actually kind of like it, even though my mum is fuming! She doesn't like it when people put it in.
“I haven't really asked why there is no hyphen. She's just said it's not meant to be there. I'm not too sure. It is what it is. I don't mind!"
Asked if the difficulties his headteacher mum Fiona has had organising home-schooling throughout the pandemic gives him perspective, Smith Rowe replied: “Definitely.
“I know how much hard work it is. My mum and dad have always taught me to stay grounded and humble.
“All the kids at her school know that I play for Arsenal. When everything is finally over, it'll be great to go and see them. It's always something I wanted to do."
