Adrian Clarke has now hailed one Arsenal star for his remarkable work-rate and ability to improve those around him.
Mikel Arteta’s current tactical setup at Arsenal is certainly working well. The team is firing on all cylinders at both ends of the pitch and the Gunners are in flying form.
The North London club are currently sat at the top of the Premier League table and are unbeaten in the top flight of English football since the turn of the year.
One of the big success stories in recent weeks at the Emirates Stadium has been the emergence of Kai Havertz as a striker. The German has been in fantastic form of late and is a good tactical fit in this Arsenal team when it comes to leading the line.
Mikel Arteta vindicated for faith in Kai Havertz
When he joined the club from Chelsea in the recent summer transfer window, Arteta planned to reinvent Havertz as a midfielder. After all, the 24-year-old had failed to shine consistently as a striker in his time at Stamford Bridge.
Havertz struggled to adapt to life in the middle of the park, though, and has now flourished whilst spearheading the attack. He has been scoring with regularity, and his aerial prowess and physicality bring a new dimension to the Gunners’ attacking contingent.
His presence at the top of the pitch allows Arsenal to go long more often, as he can be relied upon to win his duels and bring others into play. He is also able to occupy opposition defenders, creating space for the likes of Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka to exploit.
Havertz recently took his tally of goal contributions for Arsenal this season to a figure beyond anything he ever achieved at Chelsea.
Arteta was doubted and questioned for his decision to bring the 44-cap Germany international to the Emirates Stadium in the first place. The Spanish coach’s faith in the player has now been vindicated, though, as Havertz has silenced many of his critics.
READ MORE: Everything to know about Arsenal ace Kai Havertz from his girlfriend to height
Why Kai Havertz is impressing for Arsenal
Adrian Clarke has now had his say on the attacker’s impact. Speaking on the Handbrake Off podcast, he said, “I love his movement. I said it when he signed, I said he’s a space finder. He’s brilliant at it. That’s what I remember of him at Chelsea, arriving in space, and we’re seeing that now and that’s because he runs a lot and he works really hard.”
“He is a grafter, and he will spin into holes. He’ll see space and run into it. He’s an outlet and the team are better for having him in the side.”
Havertz’s impressive run in the team up front has created further questions about that position in Arteta’s squad, though. Arsenal have been linked with a host of strikers ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window, as it was an area they were expected to strengthen in. The £65 million man’s form may prompt Arteta to reconsider such plans now.