🔗 Share this article Arteta Hails ‘More Reliable’ Squad and Confirms Havertz Injury Blow. The Gunners' boss remains confident that his team can continue to cope with player absences after revealing that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for the coming weeks. Prolonged Recovery for Havertz The German forward has been absent for months due to an operation on his knee. Initially expected to return earlier in December, Arteta revealed the player encountered a problem when advancing his recovery and could not progress “the required stage.” “We took lessons, and managed to assemble a squad that is considerably steadier and has greater depth,” commented Arteta. Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture This development creates a selection headache for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. A decision is required between sticking with Mikel Merino, who scored as a makeshift striker on Sunday, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly off the bench off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is an option after 11 months out. Fitness Doubts Linger Further fitness issues involve centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the weekend encounter. Consequently, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to continue in the backline for the league leaders. The manager is convinced the substantial investment on squad depth in the last transfer window has left Arsenal in a far better place to navigate such absences. Squad Depth Vital for Premier League Pursuit In response if increased squad depth was aiding their league challenge, the manager agreed. “Indeed, because this season has seen more issues in some areas, and now the problems with the backline,” he continued. “History has shown us that we need to utilize players in different positions, and they have to be able to fulfil different roles if we are to fight at the top. And the case of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.” Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Star Speaking about the setback noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided further detail. “He was doing everything. He was unable to progress to the subsequent stage and now it appears like we have solved that issue.” Arteta expressed his eagerness to have him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. Truly, it’s a player that, in my view, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his personality, his attitude. I observe his frustration being outside.” “His fitness history is outstanding, he’s been always available, and I can’t wait to have him back with the squad playing because I feel it’s going to be a huge lift.”