Arsenal are hoping to welcome back Kai Havertz and Ben White for their upcoming match against Aston Villa to strengthen their squad amid ongoing injury concerns.
Premier League leaders Arsenal could receive a significant fitness boost ahead of Tuesday’s match against Aston Villa.
Following a narrow 2-1 win over Brighton, insider reports suggest that Kai Havertz has been included in the squad after recovering from a long-term knee injury sustained in August.
A final decision on his selection for the matchday team sheet is expected to be made on the morning of the game.
Manager Mikel Arteta is also monitoring the status of defender Ben White, who reportedly has an “outside chance” of featuring.
White has been sidelined with a hamstring issue since the match against Wolves, and though some reports suggested a mid-January return, his availability would be timely given that Jurrien Timber is doubtful following a training ground injury.
If fit, White could return to his standard right-back role, allowing Declan Rice to move back into midfield.
The Gunners are looking to avenge a 2-1 defeat suffered at Villa Park earlier this month and maintain their two-point lead over Manchester City.
While Gabriel Jesus and Viktor Gyokeres have led the line recently, Havertz’s return offers a fresh tactical option.
The club must improve their clinical edge after a “nervy finish” against Brighton, where David Raya was forced into a world-class save to preserve the victory and the club’s winning streak.