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Arsenal's manager remains confident that his team can persist in handling with injury setbacks after revealing that forward Kai Havertz will not return for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The Germany international has been sidelined since the summer due to knee surgery. Originally slated to return at the start of this month, the manager stated the player hit a snag when stepping up his rehabilitation and was unable to move forward “the required stage.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a group that is much more reliable and has more options,” Arteta said.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This news leaves a selection headache for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between sticking with Mikel Merino, who found the net as a makeshift striker last weekend, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return off the bench in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains an option following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Remain

Further fitness issues affect centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Stamford Bridge game. Therefore, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to continue in the backline for the Premier League front-runners.

The manager is convinced the substantial investment on reinforcements during the summer has resulted in a far better place to deal with such absences.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

In response if increased squad depth was helping their league challenge, Arteta was emphatic. “Indeed, since the current term has seen more issues in the attacking line, and now the problems with the defence,” he added.

“We learned from the past that we need to utilize players in different positions, and they need to be prepared to adapt to new tasks if we want to compete at the top. And the example of Mikel is just the best one.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Addressing the complication noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “He followed all protocols. He failed to advance to the required step and now it’s looking like we have unlocked that.”

The manager conveyed his eagerness to see him return. “The team is keen to have him. Truly, Havertz is someone that, for me, I love so much for the qualities he offers to the team, but his character, his nature. I observe his frustration on the sidelines.”

“His fitness history is phenomenal, he's rarely been injured, and I am eagerly awaiting to get him back with the squad on the pitch because I believe it’s going to be a huge lift.”