Mikel Arteta provides injury news on Eberechi Eze and Kai Havertz

Arsenal returned to the top of the Premier League.

Mikel Arteta

Arsenal returned to the top of the Premier League, but the result came with concern. They edged past Newcastle 1-0 in a tense game, with Eberechi Eze scoring the winner early on.

It was a big moment in the title race for the Gunners. But the focus quickly shifted. Two key players failed to finish the match, and that raised immediate questions.

Kai Havertz went down first. The German played a key role in the goal, setting up Eze from a short corner in the ninth minute. But he struggled soon after and left the pitch around the half-hour mark.

Then came another blow. Eze, who had given Arsenal the lead, also went off early in the second half. Gabriel Martinelli replaced him as Arteta looked to protect the result.

That double setback worried fans. Now Arteta has provided an update. Speaking after the game, Mikel Arteta suggested the injuries may not be serious. He said:

“Let’s see. At the moment they have to be looked after but hopefully they’re going to be OK.”

“Both of them had to come off, I think it was small niggles. We don’t know the extent of that. Probably tomorrow we will know more.”

Arsenal cannot afford major injuries at this stage of the season. The title race remains tight, and every game carries huge importance.

Eze has added quality in attack, while Havertz continues to lead the line ahead of Viktor Gyokeres. Arteta also pointed out how often injuries have disrupted his plans this season. He said:

“With Kai and Bukayo, they’ve never played together, which is incredible.”

For now, Arsenal wait, but Mikel Arteta remains hopeful that both Eberechi Eze and Kai Havertz avoided serious damage.

Also, Opta’s supercomputer has predicted the Premier League winner after Arsenal reclaimed top spot in the table.

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