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Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that his squad can keep managing with injury setbacks after confirming that star striker Kai Havertz is not ready for the coming weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

The German forward has been sidelined since the summer due to an operation on his knee. Originally slated to be available at the start of this month, Arteta explained the player hit a snag when stepping up his training and could not progress “the next phase.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a group that is considerably steadier and has greater depth,” stated the manager.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This news creates a selection headache for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. A decision is required between persisting with Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker on Sunday, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue in the latter stages. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is available post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Persist

Additional concerns involve centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who both missed the weekend encounter. Consequently, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably continue in central defence for the league leaders.

The manager is convinced the significant outlay on reinforcements during the summer has resulted in a more robust situation to handle such absences.

Greater Options Key to Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if increased squad depth was benefiting their league challenge, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, because this season has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now the problems with the backline,” he noted.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we have to use players in alternative spots, and they need to be prepared to adapt to new tasks if we are to fight at the highest level. And the case of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Havertz

Speaking about the delay previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave further detail. “His recovery was progressing. He was unable to progress to the required step and now it’s looking like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his keenness to have him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. Truly, he is a footballer who, in my view, I admire greatly for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his personality. I observe his frustration on the sidelines.”

“His availability record is phenomenal, he's rarely been injured, and I can’t wait to get him back with the squad and playing because I believe it’s going to be a huge lift.”