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Arsenal match-winner Emile Smith-Rowe is praised for 'exceptional' performance against Chelsea, as Jamie Redknapp insists he was the best player on the park as Ashley Cole labels young midfielder a 'leader'

Emile Smith-Rowe has been praised for his 'exceptional' display that was key in helping Arsenal take three points from their visit to Chelsea.

The England youth international helped to blow the race for Europe wide open by grabbing the only goal of the game at Stamford Bridge, pouncing on a mistake by Jorginho to fire home on 16 minutes.

His assured display kept Mikel Arteta's men ticking in the middle of the park, and Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp was quick to pick up on the 20-year-old's contribution.

Emile Smith-Rowe has been praised for his performance against Chelsea on Wednesday night

'I have to mention Smith-Rowe, he was excellent today, he was the best player on the pitch, he made things happen,' insisted the former Liverpool and Tottenham midfielder.