Martin Keown has shared his doubts over Kai Havertz position in Arsenal’s squad as they prepare to mount another title challenge.
Speaking via the BBC’s Premier League predictions, Keown also mentioned that he thinks City will be too strong for Arsenal again this year.
And although he’s praised the work the Gunners have done, he thinks they’ll settle for second spot again.
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Keown said: “Arsenal have had a fantastic transfer window, too.
“I am not sure how Kai Havertz fits in, but I really like the look of Jurrien Timber and Declan Rice is one of England’s best players.
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“I still think City will be too strong for Arsenal to overcome but I see the Gunners finishing a close second.”
Keown’s comments come as something of a surprise given the effective role Kai Havertz recently played for Arsenal in the FA Community Shield.
Mikel Arteta deployed Havertz up top and had it not been for two good saves by Stefan Ortega, Havertz may have won the game himself.
Moreover, Havertz has also shown glimpses in pre-season of just how effective the timing of his runs can be when joining the attack from midfield.
Keown isn’t sure how Kai Havertz fits into Arsenal’s team this season
Rather than being a problem, Havertz should prove to be something of a luxury for Arsenal this season.
It seems Declan Rice will often play in the left central midfield role vacated by Granit Xhaka.
Gabriel Jesus will lead the line when fit again.
And Kai Havertz can be an effective alternative to either.
Keown raises an interesting point regarding how best to profit from Havertz at Arsenal, but it shouldn’t necessarily be seen as a problem.
Arsenal have a lot of tactical fluidity this season, something Mikel Arteta was clearly very keen on.
And with fellow new signing Jurrien Timber also being incredibly versatile at the back, Arteta will be able to spring a surprise this season.
It’s a long campaign ahead for Arsenal and the added bodies they have this season, ones with real quality, should only benefit the side.
Martin Keown is valid in his opinion that Havertz doesn’t have an obvious fit at Arsenal, but he’ll undoubtedly do his best to force one.