German midfielder back on the pitch after months out as Mikel Arteta’s squad begins to take shape
Arsenal have received a major boost ahead of their next match after Kai Havertz returned to full team training following a long spell on the sidelines.
The Germany international has been out for four months after suffering a knee injury early in the season. Havertz picked up the problem after making a brief appearance in Arsenal’s opening-day match against Manchester United. The injury required a minor procedure and delayed his expected return beyond late November.
On Monday evening, Havertz was seen training with the rest of the squad at London Colney. Arsenal also shared images of the 26-year-old working in the gym, signalling steady progress in his recovery.
The development follows recent comments from manager Mikel Arteta, who had played down concerns of a setback and said the midfielder was progressing well. Havertz’s return comes at a key time, with Arsenal entering a busy run of fixtures over the Christmas period, starting with a Carabao Cup tie against Crystal Palace.
While Havertz’s return is encouraging, Arsenal still face injury concerns elsewhere. Defender Piero Hincapie was not seen in training photos released by the club. Gabriel Jesus is being carefully managed after a long absence but is pushing for a start after several positive substitute appearances.
Several players remain unavailable, including Gabriel Magalhaes, Cristhian Mosquera, Ben White and Max Dowman. Gabriel Magalhaes, who has been out since the November international break, is nearing a return and could be back before the end of the year.
Arsenal face a good opportunity to reach the Carabao Cup semi-finals against a depleted Crystal Palace side, who are missing key players through injury and fitness issues.
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