Former Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor has now confessed that he does not rate one of the Gunners’ current stars.
There is currently a very positive mood at Arsenal as their recent win over bitter rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the North London derby kept their Premier League title dream alive.
Whilst the Gunners weren’t at their best at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday, a number of impressive individual performances were enough to earn victory for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Bukayo Saka matched two feats previously achieved by Arsenal legend Ian Wright in this fixture. The Hale End academy graduate got on the scoresheet himself, and also forced an own goal with one of his corner kick deliveries.
Goalkeeper David Raya also earned credit with Arsenal fans due to the manner in which he responded to an error he made during the match. Declan Rice and Ben White also caught the eye.
Kai Havertz shines for Arsenal in North London derby
Perhaps the real star of the show, though, was Kai Havertz. The German forward produced an exceptional performance up front, and was rewarded for his efforts with a goal and an assist. With these goal contributions, Havertz was able to replicate a feat last managed by former Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira in 2004.
The 24-year-old has been in fine form in recent months. He is an ideal tactical fit as a striker in this Arsenal side. His aerial ability, physical prowess, impressive hold-up play, and intelligent movement all serve to make him an effective focal point in this team.
Emmanuel Adebayor takes aim at Arsenal star Kai Havertz
However, Emmanuel Adebayor is not so enamoured with the £280,000-a-week former Chelsea man.
Speaking to Premier League Productions, the former Arsenal and Spurs man said “He has adapted well, but I am not a big fan of the player. He isn’t that strong and when you are playing up front for a team like Arsenal. First and foremost, you have to be strong and you have to be clever.”
Adebayor spent three and a half seasons on the books at the Emirates Stadium between 2006 and 2009, before moving on to join Manchester City. He then soured his reputation with Arsenal fans for the manner in which he celebrated a goal against the club which he scored in his time as a Manchester City player.
The former Togo international went on to represent Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace in the Premier League, and hung up his boots for good in 2023.