Mikel Arteta explains new Arsenal role for Kai Havertz amid Viktor Gyokeres transformation | OneFootball

Havertz moved into deeper midfield role as Gyokeres hits form

Mikel Arteta has explained why Kai Havertz played deeper in midfielder for Arsenal in their 3-0 win against Sunderland.

His move to a deeper role comes at a time when Viktor Gyokeres is the most in-form striker in the Premier League.

The £64million signing appears a player transformed, having initially struggled following his move to Arsenal from Sporting last summer.

Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz celebrate as Arsenal cruise to victory against Sunderland

Arsenal FC via Getty Images

Explaining the decision to play Havertz in a deeper midfield role, Arteta said: “Well, I suppose with the kind of game that we expected as well and the way they play and the type of threat that we wanted to create as well with him and Gabby in and around the three central defenders.

“So, yeah, something as well that we have to use because we have very different qualities from Kai to Martin or to Ebs or another attacking midfielder.”

Arteta has backed the Gyokeres to continue firing in the goals and believes confidence is the “magic” thing that has transformed his form.

“That's the magic word, I think,” said Arteta. “When you feel confident, when you feel important, when you feel at your best, that's when you can really take your game to the highest level.

“We all try, the first one, the team-mates, but all the staff, obviously, really behind him in every moment to try to help him, to try to support him, and he's delivering and he's in a really good moment now.

“When you put that shirt on, it comes with a lot of responsibility and huge expectations, and you need to live with that. And in your journey here, you're going to have moments where it goes really well and others that are going to be tough.

“Because, as well, you have an opponent that plays a part and he makes it really difficult for you. But I love his character, the way he approaches every single day and the fact that he's so focused on the present, what he has to do, and he has a genuine will to help the team in whatever role he has.”