Kai Havertz faces high workload after failure to sign striker – Mikel Arteta

HIGH WORKLOAD: Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta says Kai Havertz could be forced all remaining Arsenal games after their bid to sign a striker failed.

Mikel Arteta has admitted Kai Havertz could be forced to start all of Arsenal’s remaining matches following their failed bid to sign a striker.

The Gunners moved to bring in a new forward after Gabriel Jesus suffered a season-ending injury in their FA Cup exit against Manchester United on January 12.

But after they fell short in their bid to sign Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa – a move it is understood now appears unlikely even in the summer – Arsenal will continue their quest for silverware with Havertz as their sole recognised senior striker.

And when asked if it is possible that the Germany international could now be expected to play every match between now and the end of the season, Arteta said: “It is a possibility, but maybe we go through that scenario and he scores another 15 or 18 goals? Can you imagine? That’s a good scenario.” 

Havertz, 25, has faced criticism this season and missed an open goal in Arsenal’s 5-1 thrashing of Manchester City on Sunday.

However, the former Chelsea man did get his name on the scoresheet in the rout which keeps Arsenal’s title dream alive. He has returned 15 goals from 33 appearances so far this term.

“Kai has played a lot of football but his robustness and his availability is unbelievable,” added Arteta.

“Genetically he is a powerhouse. He is so well-built. He is a player that anything you ask him, he is happy to do: to run, to be very robust, to make long distances. His body absorbs everything. And then he really looks after himself.

“When you see the professional, how he lives his life, it is immaculate. He does more than any other player there. That is not a coincidence. And he is so intelligent. He knows what is good for him and what is not.

“We know how to manage him and we believe that when he says something it is for the right reason, not because he wants to avoid something. When something works, don’t touch him.” Havertz will be tasked with leading the line as Arsenal bid to overturn a two-goal deficit against Newcastle to reach the Carabao Cup final on March 16.

The Gunners will head to St James’ Park in buoyant mood following their statement win against City which leaves them six points behind Liverpool in the race for the title.

“The next stop is a final in Wembley so we know how big that is and you can feel it,” said Arteta, whose 2020 FA Cup triumph remains his only piece of silverware as Arsenal manager.

“The momentum is with us and we have a break (after the game against Newcastle) so now is the the moment to go full gas.

“We’re excited, willing, hungry and enthusiastic because we are very close to playing a final, and hopefully we can achieve that tomorrow.”