“He was ill before the match” - Arsenal boss Arteta makes big revelation about player who was 'unbelievable' in win v Spurs
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed that Kai Havertz was ill ahead of the North London Derby in the Premier League on Sunday, April 28.
The Gunners won the derby at the Tottenham Hotspur stadium by a score of 3-2. Havertz put on a delightful performance and even managed to get on the scoresheet to score his side's third in the 38th minute.
An own goal from Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg (15') and Bukayo Saka's 27th-minute strike were the other two goals for the Gunners. Tottenham, though, managed to mount a late comeback. Cuti Romero capitalized on a horrendous error from David Raya to pull one back (64') before Son Heung-min scored from the penalty spot (87').
Arteta's side eventually came away with three crucial points and Havertz was arguably one of the team's best players against Spurs. Apart from his goal, he bagged the assist for Saka's strike. He also delightfully set up the Englishman for another chance, but the Englishman's effort was saved by Guglielmo Vicario.
After the game, Arteta said on Havertz (via Football.London):
"He was sensational in every department today. He wasn't at 100%. He was ill before the match, he was a bit struggling and he still put the performance he put in. I thought he was unbelievable today."
Havertz, since his summer move to Arsenal from Chelsea, has now scored 13 goals and has provided six assists in 48 appearances across competitions. The German has stood tall for his team in some crucial moments this season.
Kai Havertz's performance during Tottenham vs. Arsenal by the numbers
Havertz, apart from his goal and assist against Spurs, completed 20 passes and one dribble. He created one big chance as well. Apart from his attacking contributions, Havertz also put in the defensive shift for Arsenal.
The German won four ground duels and seven aerial duels for his team. He made two clearances, completed one tackle, and also earned two fouls for his side during the north London derby.
Overall, it was a spectacular performance from Havertz. With three crucial games to go this season, the German rich vein of form should be a massive boost of confidence for Arteta.