Kai Havertz is set to miss the rest of the season due to a hamstring injury he suffered during Arsenal's training camp in Dubai.
Speaking before his side's Carabao Cup defeat to Newcastle, Arteta hailed Havertz and insisted it was not a 'gamble' to bank on the German remaining fit for the rest of the season.
The Gunners currently sit six points behind Liverpool in the Premier League, with Havertz's injury a huge blow to their hopes of beating the Reds to the title.
It is a bitter blow for Havertz, who had been available for almost every game this season, scored 15 goals and notching five assists in 34 appearances across all competitions.
"Kai has played so many games, and been so important when other players, some big players as well, were available.
