Mikel Arteta now has no excuses, he has to start ‘underrated’ 24-year-old on Saturday

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On the back of a very unfortunate injury for Gabriel Jesus against Sevilla, Mikel Arteta now needs to start Kai Havertz as a striker for Arsenal on Saturday.

Although it does remain to be seen just how severe Jesus’ injury is, Arteta has already admitted his worry.

And therefore given Saturday’s tie with Sheffield United is already on the horizon, Arteta may be making plans without Jesus.

Moreover, that should mean that Kai Havertz finally gets his chance to start at striker.

The 24-year-old has looked brilliant in his recent cameos in the more advanced role, and he now deserves a chance to show his ability from the off.

Eddie Nketiah has had his chances this season, and although he’s much loved by Arsenal fans, he simply hasn’t taken them.

Those fans will of course be hoping that Jesus is fine to start the game on Saturday – which would be a huge relief for all connected to the club.

However, if Jesus is not ready, Havertz needs a chance as Arsenal’s leading man.

Arteta has been so good at backing his £65m signing in the early months of his arrival, and he now needs to do so again.

Havertz has all the attributes to cover for Jesus at Arsenal

Of course, Mikel Arteta will still be working diligently with Havertz to improve his confidence since joining Arsenal.

And there seems no better time to start the German than on the arrival of the Premier League’s worst defence. 

Sheffield United have suffered more xGa, 24.43 in just nine games, than anyone else in the league.

And whilst Jesus would have enjoyed the chance to start on Saturday, Arsenal would be well advised to now turn to ‘underrated‘ Havertz – a choice that would probably be popular with fans.

Moreover, those Arsenal fans are also very keen to see Takehiro Tomiyasu keep his spot in the team on Saturday.

Tomiyasu put in a dominant performance in Seville and gave Mikel Arteta a very positive selection headache.

Oleksandr Zinchenko has been a transformative signing for Arsenal, but does now have some weaknesses in his game.