Arsenal look set to have Kai Havertz back for the FA Cup trip to Portsmouth, boosting options up front alongside Gabriel Jesus. Punters: Arsenal win markets could shorten and anytime-scorer bets on Jesus or Havertz gain appeal, while Gyokeres’ dip in form makes backing him to score a riskier play.
Havertz Closing in on Return for FA Cup Tie
Mikel Arteta expects Kai Havertz to be available for Arsenal’s FA Cup third-round visit to Portsmouth. Havertz has been out since the opening weekend after minor knee surgery in August and a subsequent setback, but he returned to squad training in late December and has been managed since then. Arteta said Havertz has increased his load in training and is coping well, suggesting he should be back in the squad soon.
Three Front‑Line Options as Selection Dilemma Looms
Arsenal now have multiple choices up front. Gabriel Jesus is fit again and has looked sharp since his return, while summer signing Viktor Gyokeres remains a possible starter. The situation also presents an unconventional option in Mikel Merino, who has shown he can lead the line when called upon.
Gyokeres Under Growing Scrutiny
Gyokeres returned from a hamstring injury in late November but has managed only one goal (a penalty) in 10 appearances, with five goals across 18 Premier League matches overall. He has gone four games without scoring and drew particular criticism for a subdued display against Liverpool, raising doubts about his ability to trouble elite centre-backs.
Media and Pundit Pressure
Former players and pundits have questioned Gyokeres’ quality and impact in big games, suggesting Gabriel Jesus — and potentially Havertz as a central option — offer greater finesse and effectiveness when Arsenal need a cutting edge.
Rotation Plan and Key Fixtures to Come
Arteta is likely to rotate his squad for the Portsmouth tie, but upcoming fixtures will clarify his preferred strike partnership. Arsenal face Chelsea in the Carabao Cup semi-final, visit Nottingham Forest, travel to Inter Milan in the Champions League, and then host Manchester United on January 25 — a congested schedule that will test fitness and form.
What This Means for Selection
If Havertz returns to the matchday squad and Jesus continues to perform, Gyokeres could slip down the pecking order unless his form improves quickly. Arteta’s decisions across cup and European ties will be telling for who becomes Arsenal’s front‑line regular.
Marc Guehi: ‘January Asking Price Set’ for Arsenal, Liverpool, Man City Target
Kai Havertz is set to return for Arsenal against Portsmouth but it will raise questions over what is next for Viktor Gyokeres.
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