Without Havertz, Arteta is now into ‘false nine’ territory - with Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli also out, his only attacking options are Leandro Trossard, Raheem Sterling and the 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri.
Arsenal have been transformed and greatly improved during five years under Arteta - but while they have spent big in defence and midfield, they have not invested anywhere near as much in their front line.
Gabriel Jesus, Arteta’s other option at centre-forward, had already been ruled out for the season so the idea of a serious injury to Havertz was always the nightmare scenario.
ARSENAL were humbled by Newcastle at St James' Park as the Magpies beat them 2-0 to secure a spot in the League Cup final.
TEN days ago, I watched Arsenal get knocked out of the Carabao Cup by Newcastle United at St James’ Park.
