Mikel Arteta ‘surprised’ BBC pundit with key decision in Arsenal vs Wolves

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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta ‘surprised’ BBC pundit Pat Nevin with the decision to bench Kai Havertz for the visit of Wolves to Emirates Stadium in the Premier League.

The Gunners played host to the Old Gold this Saturday afternoon for their 14th fixture of the Premier League season. But Arteta dropped Havertz in favour of starting Leandro Trossard in his midfield. The Belgian lined up with Declan Rice and captain Martin Odegaard in the core.

Trossard had started in a central position in Arsenal’s midfield during their previous Premier League fixture at Brentford, as well. But Havertz came off the bench for Gabriel Martinelli at the Gtech Community Stadium and scored their winning goal. He scored in the 89th minute.

Mikel Arteta dropped Kai Havertz as Arsenal hosted Wolves

Arteta rewarded Havertz for scoring at Brentford by starting the 24-year-old against Lens in the Champions League. It proved to be a great decision as Havertz hit one of the Gunners’ six goals, as well. His effort also broke the deadlock in the 21st minute at Emirates Stadium.

Havertz had only scored once through his first 19 appearances for Arsenal since joining from Chelsea in July. But their £62.5m, up to £67.5m, signing ghosted in at the far post to score at Brentford. He then reacted quickly to score against Lens from Gabriel Jesus’ knockdown.

Mikel Arteta ‘surprised’ Pat Nevin with his selection decision

Yet two goals in two appearances was not enough for Havertz to keep a starting spot in the Arsenal midfield against Wolves. Opening the action against Lens returned his 15th start in 21 appearances. The German has been a key part of Arteta’s side since joining this summer.

So, for Arteta to bench Havertz in favour of Trossard as Arsenal welcomed Wolves to north London somewhat astonished Nevin. Trossard was an unused substitute in the Champions League on Wednesday night. It was the first time he had not played at all since September.

“I’m quite surprised Havertz hasn’t started today,” Nevin said on BBC Radio 5 Live. “But he’s someone who can come in and make a difference in a game.”