Mikel Arteta has now explained why he has used summer signing Kai Havertz in multiple positions for Arsenal.

The German international joined this summer after a few difficult years at Chelsea, and has played both in midfield and as a forward for Arsenal.

He has initially struggled in North London, failing to register a goal or an assist in six matches, but put in an improved display in Arsenal’s Champions League victory over PSV Eindhoven last night.

Havertz started as a central midfielder before moving forward as a striker after Gabriel Jesus was substituted, and speaking after the game, Arteta admitted that he is happy to use Havertz in different roles based on the state of the game.

“He was very connected today in the game,” Arteta stated of Havertz.

“It’s true that I ask him to play in two different roles in regard to the opponent’s behaviours. He’s so intelligent the way he does it.

“It’s just finishing one or two actions that we had again, but it’s coming and he’s so willing to do it.”

Havertz’s versatility

Havertz has looked at his best when playing as a striker, with the 24-year-old occupying the role from the start in the Community Shield, and moving upfront as a substitute on a number of occasions.

His main strength is his aerial ability, and playing as a forward allows him to become a target man. His movement against PSV was promising, as he won a number of aerial duels and helped link play with his physique.

Havertz has struggled to make an impact in a midfield role at times, but this is a role that he is still adapting to. Part of his struggle at Chelsea was that he was not given a set position. Whilst Arteta may perhaps be doing the same, he is clearly trying to fit Havertz into a role which can best utilise his strengths to help the team going forward.

The post 'It's true': Mikel Arteta makes tactical admission over 'intelligent' Arsenal star appeared first on Arsenal Insider.