Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has paid tribute to the late Steve Rowley.

The Gunners announce the sad death of their former chief scout on Sunday.

Boss Arteta paid his own tribute to the man who had been associated with the club from 1980 until 2017, and headed up the Arsenal scouting department after Arsene Wenger became manager in 1996.

“I knew him very well and we had some great moments,” said Mikel, who played for Arsenal between 2011 and 2016 before returning as manager in late 2019.

“He was a big part of this club and how he helped Arsène and Arsenal to develop the teams that they built in the past.

“It’s really sad news and we send our love from the club and, on my behalf, to the family and hopefully, he can rest in peace.”

See the Gooner soon for David Fensome's tribute to Steve Rowley. RIP