Arsenal striker Kai Havertz has earned plenty of plaudits so far this season.
Kai Havertz has been in exceptional form for Arsenal recently.
The German striker has very much established himself as Mikel Arteta’s first choice to lead the line, firmly ahead of the struggling Gabriel Jesus in the pecking order at the Emirates Stadium.
Havertz was on the scoresheet again for the Gunners this weekend. Latching onto a pass from Bukayo Saka, the former Chelsea man fired in an equaliser beyond Aaron Ramsdale, setting Arsenal on their way to a comeback victory over Southampton.
With this goal, Havertz equalled a record set by Robin van Persie, as he has now scored in seven consecutive appearances at the Emirates Stadium.
However, there is far more to the 25-year-old’s game than just goals, a fact that is very much appreciated within the club.
Jermain Defoe reveals Kai Havertz’s reputation at Arsenal
Former Tottenham Hotspur striker Jermain Defoe has now offered an insight into how Havertz is viewed behind the scenes at Arsenal, based on information he has received from his contacts at the club.
Speaking on The Weekend Wrap, Defoe said: “I think he’s so much more than just a goalscorer. We spoke before about how hard he works and I’ve spoken to a few of the guys at Arsenal, and they said that he scores goals but he does so much more for the team.
“A big part of the game now is build-up, but sometimes Arsenal go long and when they do he’s a focal point, he holds it up and wins headers. He has a bit of everything.”
Havertz is indeed brilliant off the ball, holding up the ball, offering intelligent movement, and bringing teammates into play. Arteta will particularly appreciate how, when his side aren’t in possession, the Germany international presses relentlessly and competes fiercely in his duels.
How Mikel Arteta has transformed Havertz
Arteta had big plans for Havertz when he prised him away from Stamford Bridge in the summer of 2023, though he arrived in North London looking bereft of confidence.
Arteta initially sought to convert Havertz into a midfielder. However, the player struggled to adapt to this role and never looked comfortable with what he was being tasked with.
The Spanish coach kept faith in Havertz though, and this was rewarded midway through last season when he was moved up front. He has not looked back since, gaining confidence and repaying the manager’s trust.
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