Forget Viktor Gyokeres, Kai Havertz could be about to take another Arsenal star's position

Kai Havertz marked his first Arsenal start in 357 days with a goal and assist against FC Kairat in the Champions League.

The Gunners’ supporters were delighted to see the German attacker back in the starting line-up, having missed most of the season with a knee issue.

Mikel Arteta’s team enjoyed a comfortable first 45 minutes in their final Champions League group stage game against the team from Kazakhstan.

But it was an especially promising half from Havertz, who produced an eye-catching performance in a midfield role for Arsenal.

Kai Havertz could take Martin Odegaard’s Arsenal spot

Kai Havertz could be about to take Martin Odegaard’s position at Arsenal after really impressing in the number ten role.

Just 1 minute and 42 seconds into his return, the 27-year-old produced a line-splitting pass to pick out Viktor Gyokeres, who scored.

Havertz beautifully anticipated the striker’s run and slotted through a well-weighted pass to find him beyond Kairat’s defence.

Odegaard has struggled at Arsenal recently, with his lack of impetus and forward thinking in his passing frustrating supporters.

Some Arsenal fans have even questioned Odegaard’s role as captain after he was subbed off on minute 58 against Manchester United over the weekend.

Now, with Havertz back and Eberechi Eze waiting for his chance in the Premier League, the Norwegian is facing big competition to start.

Havertz’s goal and assist on Wednesday evening means he has now done so in eight different Champions League matches for Arsenal.

Only Bukayo Saka has managed that achievement more than the German, with the Arsenal academy graduate doing so on nine occasions.

It just highlights the impact Havertz has had for the Gunners since making the switch from Chelsea back in the summer of 2023.