Mikel Arteta has delivered a significant injury update on Kai Havertz ahead of Arsenal's crucial Premier League showdown with Liverpool on Thursday night, though the Gunners will be without two key defenders.
Havertz Nearing Return for Emirates Clash
Kai Havertz is in contention to feature against the reigning champions after taking part in training. The German forward, 26, has been sidelined since suffering a knee injury in August and has not played since, though he was named on the bench for the 4-1 win over Aston Villa last week.
Arteta confirmed the positive news in his pre-match press conference, stating: "We are monitoring his load. He's been out for a long time for two different reasons. He's very close. He trained this morning again. Hopefully we're going to have him available and the best version of himself."
Defensive Blow for Arteta
However, the Arsenal manager confirmed a double defensive setback. Centre-backs Cristhian Mosquera and Riccardo Calafiori have both been ruled out of the Liverpool fixture as they continue their rehabilitation from injury.
"No. They're out again," Arteta said of the pair. "I think pretty soon [they will return]. They have to go through the last stage of the rehab, and if everything goes well, hopefully soon they will be available for selection."
Arteta's Point to Prove Against Champions
With Arsenal sitting top of the Premier League table, Arteta emphasised the importance of the match against Liverpool, one of only two teams to have beaten the Gunners this season. He described feeling "excited" for the "massive game against the champions."
"We have a point to prove," Arteta asserted. "We're going to have our crowd creating an amazing atmosphere... We are top of the table, we play at home against a really good opponent. We want to maintain our position. To do that we're going to have to be excellent throughout the game. That's the point we have to prove."
The Spaniard also praised his opposite number, Arne Slot, noting Liverpool's tactical flexibility under the Dutchman. "Liverpool have a great manager," Arteta added. "They have a sensational structural understanding... they can play in different ways."
The stage is now set for a pivotal encounter at the Emirates Stadium, with Arsenal's title credentials set for their sternest test yet against the champions.
