Mikel Arteta singles out Arsenal star for praise after Luton comeback win | Football

5 months ago

Mikel Arteta’s side showed their fighting spirit again to secure a 4-3 win over Luton Town (Picture: beIN Sport)

Mikel Arteta was thrilled with the performance of Kai Havertz who, according to his manager, delivered his best performance in an Arsenal shirt since his summer transfer from Chelsea.

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It has been a slow burn for the Germany international who initially struggled to come to terms with the tactical demands placed upon him by Arteta who has attempted to reinvent Havertz as a left eight.

Having spent the majority of his Chelsea career in a false nine role, it was always going to take the 24-year-old time to adjust to an unfamiliar position but he has begun to blossom in recent weeks.

After scoring a vital late winning goal against Brentford, Havertz was again on the scoresheet as the Gunners crushed Lens 6-0 a week ago as they booked their place in the last 16 of the Champions League as group winners.

Having been rested against Wolves last week, Havertz was back in the starting line-up at Luton last night and delivered a polished display, capped by the goal which tied the scores at 3-3 just minutes after the home side had taken a shock lead.

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Arteta was particularly pleased with the understanding Havertz appears to be building with Gabriel Jesus with their combination play for the former’s goal a particular highlight of a thrilling game.

‘They have different qualities and complement each other really well,’ said Arteta. ‘I thought Kai played his best game, he’s getting better and better.

‘That’s what we need, players that start to raise the level and get in a good moment because we’re going to need players as we’re losing a lot at the moment.

‘Gabi looked really lively today, really active and caused them a lot of problems. He was really mobile, a constant threat and scored a good goal.

‘He was involved in many positive actions for the team as well, so I think we’re getting the best out of him and he’s in a good place.’

MORE : Mikel Arteta refuses to blame David Raya after blunders in Arsenal win at Luton

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