ARSENAL boss Mikel Arteta has revealed that Kai Havertz could return before the end of the season.
Havertz suffered a hamstring injury during the club’s mid-season Dubai training camp in February and was expected to miss the remainder of the campaign.
However, Arteta has offered a positive update on the striker.
During a press conference on Friday, he said: “Hopefully we can have him back. But let’s wait, I think.”
Havertz shared a video montage of his recovery on social media earlier this week, leading many fans to believe that he was closer to a return.
The 25-year-old underwent surgery on his injury in February.
Sharing a picture from his hospital bed at the time, Havertz wrote: “The last few days have been tough to process both physically and mentally.
“But yesterday was a good day. A successful op and a win.
“Thanks for all the messages of support over the last few days, it’s really helped.
“I’m now focused on my journey to full fitness and giving all the support I can give to the team in the background.”
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The potential return of Havertz could be a huge boost for the Gunners if they progress in the Champions League.
Arsenal cruised to a 3-0 victory over Real Madrid in the first leg of the quarter-finals on Tuesday thanks to a composed strike from Mikel Merino and two world-class free kicks from Declan Rice at the Emirates.
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Ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League clash with Brentford this weekend, Arteta also gave a positive injury update on Rice and Bukayo Saka after they were both withdrawn in the second half against Real Madrid.
He said: “Declan Rice and Saka are fit, no issues or injuries. It’s all good.”