Arsenal secured an excellent 3-0 victory away at Brighton to move back to the top of the Premier League, and several players delivered strong displays.
Goals from Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz and Leandro Trossard handed Arsenal all three points in what was a comfortable victory, and they could have scored even more.
Declan Rice, William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes were again amongst Arsenal’s top performers in another superb defensive display, restricting Brighton to just two shots on target.
Havertz was particularly impressive, scoring the second goal and setting up the third, and was awarded the player of the match award for his display upfront.
Former Arsenal striker Alan Smith has now praised the German for his performance at the Amex Stadium.
READ MORE: Everything to know about Arsenal ace Kai Havertz from his girlfriend to height
Alan Smith praises Kai Havertz after Arsenal win at Brighton
Speaking on Sky Sports as a commentator, Smith claimed that Havertz’s display was his best for the club, since his £65m move from Chelsea in the summer.
“We spoke about Gabriel. He was brilliant. But I think Havertz had his best game in an Arsenal shirt,” he stated.
“I just think he looks so at home in that role he has been asked to play. He got himself a goal and his defensive work was excellent.”
Kai Havertz masterclass helped Arsenal beat Brighton
Havertz has earned plaudits for his performance, including from Tennis legend Andy Murray, and his all-round display was phenomenal even beyond his goal contributions.
Havertz created four chances for his teammates, which included an outstanding floated cross to Gabriel Jesus after cleverly anticipating his run into the box.
His goal was well taken as he found the bottom corner from Jorginho’s cross, and his assist to Trossard was excellent as he weighted his through-ball perfectly.
He won seven duels in a battling performance, and caused nightmares for the Brighton defence as he dropped deep to help build-up play, whilst also running in behind and matching up physically.
It was a complete performance from Havertz, and definitely his best since joining Arsenal in the summer. He now appears completely settled, and is thriving in his best position as a striker.
Havertz’s struggles earlier in the season partly came as a result of Mikel Arteta playing him in midfield, but as a centre-forward, he can truly express himself through his intelligent movement, and is also beginning to excel in front of goal.