Arsenal star Kai Havertz named ahead of Erling Haaland in trio of strikers hailed by Shane Long
Kai Havertz has made an exceptional start to the season.
Kai Havertz has now established himself as Arsenal’s first choice striker.
When the German first came to North London in the summer fo 2023, arriving from Chelsea, Mikel Arteta had a very different plan in mind for him.
Arteta attempted to convert Havertz into a midfielder, but the 25-year-old never looked comfortable in this role.
It was not until halfway through last season when Havertz was shifted up the pitch and allowed to lead the line, that he truly found his feet at the Emirates Stadium. He has not looked back since then.
The former Chelsea man has been in blistering form recently, and already has 6 goals to his name after 10 outings. Havertz equalled Robin van Persie’s record recently, as he netted at the Emirates Stadium for the seventh game in succession.
Shane Long highlights Kai Havertz impact at Arsenal
Former Southampton striker Shane Long has certainly taken note of Havertz’s recent form.
Speaking on Sky Sports recently, the 88-cap former Republic of Ireland international was asked to name the strikers who have captured his attention in the Premier League so far this season.
Alongside Tottenham Hotspur’s Dominic Solanke, and Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap, Long noted: “Havertz seems to be doing well at Arsenal.”
There was no mention of Manchester City superstar Erling Haaland in this list, despite the Norwegian currently topping the Premier League goals chart.
Does Mikel Arteta need more support for Havertz?
Whilst Havertz has been sensational for Arsenal recently, there will be concerns about the lack of reliable alternatives to him.
Havertz is carrying a knee injury, and whilst he is expected to be fit to feature for the Gunners next time out, Arteta will be worried about the threat of him being sidelined for a significant period.
As things stand, Gabriel Jesus is the second choice striker at Arsenal, but the Brazilian has been in abysmal form in front of goal for some time now. Few would trust the former Manchester City man to replicate Havertz’s output were he required to start a run of games.
This situation may prompt Arteta to move for a goalscorer in the upcoming January transfer window.
