Mikel Arteta insists he has been happy with the contribution of Kai Havertz as the summer signing adapts at Arsenal.
Arsenal signed Havertz in a £65m deal from London rivals Chelsea during the summer, with the Germany international having made his Premier League debut for the Gunners during the 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest last weekend.
Arsenal’s move for Havertz came as a surprise after three underwhelming seasons at Chelsea, but Arteta has been pleased with the early performances from the 24-year-old and believes Havertz can provide his team with new ‘threat’.
“He fits in really well. I think he played well against Manchester City and he had big chances to score,” Arteta said at his pre-match press conference ahead of Arsenal’s clash with Crystal Palace on Monday evening.
“The other day he played two different positions and I’m really happy with what he brings to the team. His mobility, his threat and his understanding of the game is just what we want.”
Havertz – who has fluctuated between a midfield and forward role – has failed to reach 10+ goals in a Premier League season since arriving into English football, but Arteta insists it is important that Arsenal’s attacking options share the goals this season.
“We haven’t had that player [who can score 20 a season] but we have managed to be extremely competitive. The goals must be shared. No-one can sign and promise to score 20 or 30 goals.
“What we do is work the best possible way to encourage players. I’m sure we have players to score 20 goals in a season.”
