Tim Sherwood, a prominent football pundit, has weighed in on Kai Havertz’s role at Arsenal, suggesting that the German shouldn’t be starting for the club.
With Gabriel Jesus sidelined due to injury, Havertz has been deployed as a number nine by manager Mikel Arteta. However, Sherwood believes that Havertz hasn’t proven himself in that position.
“Havertz, for me, hasn’t done it when he has played there,” said Sherwood about Havertz as a number nine. “I think he has got ability. He drifts through games.”
During Arsenal’s recent 3-1 victory over Liverpool, Havertz played centrally and had a crucial chance saved by Alisson Becker, leading to Bukayo Saka’s goal from the rebound.
Despite retaining his place in the starting lineup, Havertz was replaced by Leandro Trossard in the subsequent match against West Ham United, where Arsenal secured a resounding 6-0 win.
Sherwood’s critique stems from Havertz’s perceived tendency to drift through games. Even before joining Arsenal, Havertz faced scrutiny regarding his transfer. With the season progressing, the question of whether Havertz’s acquisition will pay off remains unanswered.
Ultimately, Sherwood suggests that Arsenal’s success, or lack thereof, will determine the validity of their transfer decisions, including the utilization of Havertz.
If Arsenal clinches the Premier League title with Havertz playing a significant role, it could silence his critics. However, failure to achieve their goals may result in scrutiny directed towards both Havertz and Arteta’s management.
See More: