In a thrilling North London Derby, Arsenal clinched a significant victory against Tottenham, showcasing not just resilience but also tactical brilliance. Martin Keown, a former Arsenal defender known for his critical eye, couldn’t help but sing praises for one particular Gunners star: Kai Havertz.
The match was tense, with Arsenal missing key players like Martin Odegaard, Mikel Merino, and with Declan Rice sidelined due to suspension. Yet, in this high-stakes environment, Havertz stepped up. His performance was pivotal, helping Arsenal maintain control and ultimately secure the win through a well-executed set-piece.
Martin Keown Admits Arsenal Star Has Proven Him Wrong After Stellar Performances
Keown, speaking on TalkSPORT, admitted his initial skepticism about Havertz. “In the beginning, I wasn’t sure,” he confessed. However, Havertz’s display at Tottenham was nothing short of transformative. “He is giving his personality to the team, isn’t he?” Keown noted, highlighting Havertz’s evolution. “Now you see all of him on the pitch. He is out there giving everything.”
Indeed, Havertz’s aerial prowess and intelligent movement off the ball were on full display. His ability to contribute defensively as well as offensively has turned him into a “massive handful” for opponents. This versatility is exactly what Arsenal needed in such a crucial game.
The German international’s integration into Mikel Arteta’s squad was initially met with mixed feelings. Fans and pundits alike questioned the rationale behind his signing. But as Keown pointed out, Havertz has not only adapted but thrived, becoming an indispensable part of the team. His efforts against Tottenham were a testament to his growing influence at Arsenal.
Chris Sutton had previously lauded Havertz for his intelligence in attack, and Keown’s recent comments only reinforce this view. Havertz isn’t just filling in; he’s setting the standard. His performance in the derby wasn’t just about proving a point; it was about setting a tone for the rest of the season.
Opinion:
As Arsenal push forward in their campaign, Havertz’s role could be central to their title aspirations. His ability to perform under pressure, especially in the absence of other key players, suggests that Arsenal might have found their main man. If Havertz continues on this trajectory, and Arsenal’s defense remains as solid as it was against Tottenham, the Gunners could very well be in contention for the league title.
This victory, therefore, isn’t just three points in the bag; it’s a statement. Arsenal, with Havertz at the forefront, are proving they can overcome adversity and silence critics. Martin Keown’s change of heart is perhaps the most telling sign of Havertz’s impact. From doubt to admiration, Havertz has indeed shut up his critics, and if this trend continues, Arsenal fans have every reason to be optimistic about what lies ahead.
