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Mikel Arteta has insisted he still “loves” Kai Havertz after a nightmare weekend for the German that cost him two costly defeats.
Havertz missed a free header Arsenal lost 2-0 against Newcastle United in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final, and followed that up with another poor performance in front of goal Manchester United knocked the Gunners out of the FA Cup on penalties.
Arsenal’s struggles to score from open play have been well publicized this season and Havertz’s position as Arteta’s preferred striker – the only natural option available after Gabriel Jesus an injury – Significant questions have been asked from a large number of people Armory fans
Arteta, however, is a strong supporter of Havertz. Asked what he said to the German after the defeat against United, he replied: “To him and to all of them: that I love them, that we all love them. Individually and collectively they are joy.
“What this team does every three days is amazing, no matter what happens. I’m not going to lose sight of that, because of one or two results because we didn’t deserve it. Let’s try to do the best we can. But it’s hard to achieve, it’s an emotional part, it’s also about confidence.”
Arteta was once again asked if Arsenal could consider signing a new striker in January but he transfer market
“I understand that (question), but I couldn’t love our players more and we are very focused on the players we have to perform at the highest level,” he insisted. “The rest is not in our hands, not in my hands.”
