Better than Rashford & Palmer: Arsenal’s Kai Havertz has more non-penalty goals than PL duo
Arsenal star Kai Havertz has more non-penalty goals than Marcus Rashford and Cole Palmer in the Premier League this season.
The Germany international was a surprise signing for the Gunners from Chelsea last summer. There was criticism from some fans due to his inconsistent performances with the Blues.
The 24-year-old had a similar start with the Gunners where he was guilty of squandering some big chances. Havertz had to wait until late September to score his maiden goal.
Havertz netted from the penalty spot in a 4-0 win over Bournemouth. He has since registered seven more goals from open play for Arsenal – six of those coming in the league.
This includes three goals from his last three league outings. This has now put Havertz ahead of Rashford and Palmer in terms of non-penalty goals in the top-flight this term.
Mikel Arteta starting to get the best out of Havertz
Havertz started the campaign in a central midfield role for the Gunners. He got into some good goalscoring positions in the box, but could not add the finishing touch
The German has definitely got better with his finishing, but he has also become better as a playmaker. His passing accuracy has been close to 90 per cent since the New Year.
In the last two games, Havertz has led the line for the Gunners with good effect. He has contributed a goal and an assist on each occasion, keeping Gabriel Jesus out of the XI.
In our view, manager Mikel Arteta has started to get the best out of Havertz. His versatility was a big strength of his at Bayer Leverkusen. We are seeing something similar.
The £47 million-rated star has certainly silenced most of his critics. The fans will be hoping that he can keep up his form as the Gunners look to end the season strongly with a trophy.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
