Roberto Martinez praises Kai Havertz after splendid display vs Luton
Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez heaped praise on Kai Havertz following his splendid performance against Luton Town in the Premier League on Tuesday night.
The Gunners went five points clear at the top of the table after beating Luton, but they were made to work hard for the result. Declan Rice scored the winner with seconds left on the clock.
Havertz also had a big role to play in the dramatic 4-3 comeback win. The German was reinstated into the starting XI ahead of Leandro Trossard and caught the eye with his physical presence.
The 24-year-old scored the vital equaliser at the hour mark to make it 3-3, but was also heavily involved in other aspects. He won an impressive 10 ground and aerial duels during the game.
The midfielder also completed 100 per cent of his dribbles and made four key passes. Speaking after the game, Martinez said that Havertz is starting to look like the player seen in Germany.
The former Belgium manager added that the playmaker gives you ‘something different’ and his physicality was much needed to get the better of the Hatters at Kenilworth Road.
He told Amazon Prime (via BBC Sport): “Kai Havertz is starting to look like the player we see in Germany. Kai gives you something different. Today, his physicality was needed more and he was good.”
Havertz getting back to his best with Arsenal
The German had a difficult start to his career with the Gunners. He failed to score his maiden goal for the club until he was handed a penalty against Bournemouth in late September.
The former Chelsea man went on to assist Gabriel Martinelli’s winner against Manchester City, but his form has been very impressive since the November international break.
Havertz scored for Germany in an international friendly and he has continued his form with three goals from his last four appearances for the Gunners across all competitions.
The midfielder has answered his critics in fine fashion and the fans will be hoping that he can keep up his good scoring run as the club aim to challenge and lift the league title.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
