In the recent FA Cup third-round clash between Arsenal and Liverpool, Martin Keown, a former Arsenal player, expressed reservations about Kai Havertz’s missed chances and perceived lack of assertiveness. Despite numerous opportunities for Arsenal in the first half, Havertz struggled to convert them.
Keown, during a BBC commentary, questioned Havertz’s aggression in attempting to score, pointing out his varied positions throughout the game and wondering why he wasn’t more decisive, stating, “Why’s he not coming on to that and hitting it?”
In contrast, Danny Murphy praised Havertz for his effective off-the-ball work and commended Arsenal’s successful pressing game. Murphy noted, “It’s working really well, Havertz leading that press. Rice has been superb in the middle of the pitch. You can see the intent. They kept taking their time.”
Despite Havertz’s missed opportunities, Keown acknowledged Arsenal’s overall performance, describing their approach play as “magnificent.” However, he stressed the necessity for a more aggressive attitude, emphasizing, “You’ve got to really go for it. The approach play has been magnificent. This was four opportunities all at once.”
Kai Havertz, who recently transferred from Chelsea to Arsenal for £65 million, faced an adaptation period with his new team. Despite the initial challenges, there have been positive signs, with Havertz scoring four goals in his last nine games leading up to the Liverpool fixture. Normally positioned as an attacking midfielder, he started up front against Liverpool due to the absence of the injured Gabriel Jesus.
