Mikel Arteta gives verdict on Kai Havertz struggles after Arsenal's FA Cup exit

Mikel Arteta has insisted he still "loves" Kai Havertz at the end of the nightmare week for the German which saw him miss excellent chances in two costly defeats.

Havertz missed a free header as Arsenal fell 2-0 to Newcastle United in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final, and followed that up with another poor showing in front of goal as Manchester United dumped the Gunners out of the FA Cup on penalties.

Arsenal's struggles to score from open play this season have been well-publicised and Havertz's status as Arteta's preferred striker - the only natural option available after Gabriel Jesus' injury - has prompted significant questions from a large number of Arsenal fans.

Arteta, however, remains a strong supporter of Havertz. Asked what he told the German after the defeat to United, he responded: "To him and to all of them: that I love them, that we all love them. Individually and collectively they are a joy.

"What this team produces every three days is incredible regardless of what happens. I am not going to lose sight of that, because of a result or two because we didn't deserve it. What we can do better, let's try to do it. But it's difficult to achieve, it's an emotional part, it's something related to confidence as well."

Arteta was once again asked whether Arsenal could look to sign a new striker in January but continued to brush off calls to enter the transfer market.

"I understand that [question], but I cannot love our players more and we very much focus on the players we have to perform at the highest level," he insisted. "The rest is not in our hands, not in my hands."

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