Arsenal has received a welcome boost as key players Kai Havertz and Declan Rice have returned to training ahead of their important Premier League match against Newcastle. Both players had been sidelined for some time due to injuries but took part in first-team training on Wednesday, raising hopes that they might be available for selection in the upcoming game.
Kai Havertz, who has been out since February with a hamstring injury, was initially expected to miss the rest of the season after undergoing surgery. However, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta recently hinted that Havertz could return sooner than anticipated. His appearance in training at the Emirates Stadium surprised many and suggests that he might be ready to make a comeback in the final matches of the campaign.
Havertz’s return would be a significant advantage for Arsenal, especially considering the suspension of midfielder Mikel Merino following a red card in their last game against Liverpool. With Merino unavailable, Havertz could provide an important creative and attacking option for the team as they strive to secure second place in the Premier League.
Similarly, Declan Rice, who missed the Liverpool match due to a hip injury, was also seen training with the squad. While his injury had been a cause for concern, Rice’s involvement in training indicates a faster recovery than initially expected. His presence would bolster Arsenal’s midfield, bringing much-needed physicality and control to the center of the park.
Despite these encouraging developments, Arsenal’s injury woes are not entirely resolved. Dutch defender Jurrien Timber was absent from training and did not play even as a substitute during the recent Liverpool game. Arteta confirmed that Timber was not fit enough to participate, highlighting ongoing doubts about his availability.
Timber’s absence is a setback defensively, especially given Newcastle’s expected high-pressing style. His speed and calmness under pressure would have been valuable in containing Newcastle’s attacks. Arteta mentioned that they had hoped to assess Timber’s fitness before the match but decided not to risk him when it became clear he wasn’t ready.
The mood at Arsenal’s training ground has lifted with the returns of Havertz and Rice, whose potential involvement could be crucial as the team looks to recover from their recent loss to Liverpool and maintain their position near the top of the league table.
Fans are particularly excited about Havertz’s return, given how much his creativity and vision have been missed. His ability to combine effectively with teammates like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli could add new dynamism to Arsenal’s forward play.
Rice’s leadership qualities and defensive abilities are equally important as Arsenal prepares to face a physically tough Newcastle side. Arteta is expected to make last-minute decisions about both players based on their fitness in the final training sessions before the match.
If fit, Havertz might be deployed as a central playmaker or supporting striker, while Rice would likely resume his role as a midfield enforcer. Arteta has emphasized caution, stating that neither player will be rushed back if there are signs of injury recurrence.
Facing a physically demanding Newcastle team, having these key players available could prove decisive for Arsenal’s chances. Meanwhile, the decision to rest Timber reflects Arteta’s focus on long-term squad health.
With only a few games left in the season, every point is critical for Arsenal’s ambitions. The fitness status of Havertz, Rice, and Timber will play a pivotal role in determining whether the Gunners can finish
the campaign strongly.
