“Just small injury I substained in Dubai, Arteta has called a dangerous Academy striker to replace me…I don’t think I can deal with the competition because he’s currently the best in the squad”: Kai Havertz angered by Arteta decision to replace him with the best striker in the Academy currently
“Just small injury I substained in Dubai, Arteta has called a dangerous Academy striker to replace me…I don’t think I can deal with the competition because he’s currently the best in the squad”: Kai Havertz angered by Arteta decision to replace him with the best striker in the Academy currently
Just as Arsenal felt as though the end was in sight for their injury troubles, it has come back to wreak yet more havoc for Mikel Arteta.
The Gunners have been dealing with a cluster of issues in different parts of the team throughout the Premier League campaign so far.
At first, it was full-back absences that were all out for Mikel Arteta, though that has flipped on its head with forwards now being the unit facing the most problems.
Kai Havertz’s torn hamstring injury will now keep him out for the rest of the season, joining the treatment table with Gabriel Jesus.
There are issues for Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli too, though they are expected to be back within a month.
With a lack of centre-forwards and wingers now down to the last legs, Arsenal could be forgiven for using it as a reason for some poor results.
However, in their upcoming clash, there are no excuses to be had.
Leicester defensive record gives Arsenal hope despite Kai Havertz injury
While Arsenal are without a recognised centre-forward upon their return to Premier League action, there is still plenty of hope.
Who could start as a striker for Arsenal against Leicester?
For Mikel Arteta, there is still a large dilemma over which player he should pick as his centre-forward to face Leicester.
There are three fit forward options to fill three positions, with Leandro Trossard, Raheem Sterling and Ethan Nwaneri the players remaining for those areas.
While it would make sense to land on a mix or match of those players in different positions at centre-forward, their skill sets may not allow for it.
Arteta may prefer a different profile there, with Mikel Merino as an auxiliary option to play as a centre-forward.
The midfielder brings height, physicality and presence, while his ability to head the ball well and find the right runs to score could be useful.
Beyond him, some Hale End academy options could be on the cards, while Arsenal could use a defender to replace Havertz in a surprise twist.
