Kai Havertz faces role reversal for Tottenham as Arsenal and Mikel Arteta plan for Rice absence

Three games into the new Premier League season and Mikel Arteta already has a selection headache and not for the right reasons. So much had been made about the summer signings and the decisions that Arteta would need to make with his Arsenal side for certain games with Mikel Merino and Riccardo Calafiori coming in – add to that the loan arrival of Raheem Sterling too.

The reality is however that with Merino injured and following Declan Rice’s controversial red card against Brighton, Arsenal have a midfield problem when it comes to the North London Derby. Thomas Partey and Martin Odegaard are the obvious starting picks but it is the third which there are questions about.

The reality is however that with Merino injured and following Declan Rice’s controversial red card against Brighton, Arsenal have a midfield problem when it comes to the North London Derby. Thomas Partey and Martin Odegaard are the obvious starting picks but it is the third which there are questions about.

Jorginho is one option for Arteta with the Italian yet to start a game for the Gunners so far this season, in fact, he is yet to even come off the bench. The other option is somewhat reliant on some experimentation or fortune in the forward line.

Kai Havertz came into the club and initially began life in midfield in the role that is currently open for the derby. However, the German received plenty of scrutiny for his time in midfield and has flourished since moving into the forward line.

Three goal contributions in three games this season continue his excellent record from the end of last season. In fact, in 16 games at centre-forward for Arsenal in the Premier League, he now has nine goals and nine assists.

The idea of moving him back into the middle third might initially raise eyebrows and even spark some pushback. However, with Rice and Merino not available this is potentially the best option.

Look to pre-season and Havertz’s performances in midfield against Liverpool and Bayer Leverkusen. Against both very attacking sides, Havertz had two excellent displays and showcased the benefit both offensively and defensively of his presence in this role.

Spurs are known for their openness and that has been exploited by the likes of Leicester City and Newcastle United who have both taken points off Ange Postecoglou’s side. Arsenal have even more threat and will look to use this in their favour.

Against Leverkusen, he was particularly good and combined well with Leandro Trossard on the left and Gabriel Jesus through the middle. Jesus is currently a doubt and will hopefully return to training sooner.

In his absence and with Havertz and Trossard the other two previous centre-forward options, there is one other potential option. Raheem Sterling who arrived on deadline day has played through the middle and could be the option to make his debut against Spurs.