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Arsenal's manager has expressed confidence that his team can persist in handling with player absences following revealing that forward Kai Havertz remains out for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The German forward has been sidelined for months following an operation on his knee. Initially expected to be available earlier in December, Arteta revealed the player hit a snag when increasing his rehabilitation and was unable to move forward “to the next level.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a team that is much more reliable and has increased versatility,” stated the manager.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This development creates a selection headache for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between persisting with Mikel Merino, who got a goal in an unfamiliar forward role against Chelsea, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who came back off the bench as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is an option following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Persist

More doubts affect centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who both missed the weekend encounter. As a result, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to keep their places in central defence for the Premier League front-runners.

The manager is convinced the £250m spend on reinforcements during the summer has left Arsenal in a much stronger position to handle such unavailability.

Greater Options Key to Premier League Pursuit

When asked if more options was aiding their title quest, the manager agreed. “Absolutely, as this campaign has been worse in some areas, and now the problems with the backline,” he noted.

“History has shown us that we must deploy players in various roles, and they must be capable to perform various functions if we want to compete at the top. And the example of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Speaking about the delay previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided more insight. “His recovery was progressing. He was unable to progress to the subsequent stage and now the signs are like we have overcome that hurdle.”

The manager conveyed his eagerness to welcome him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. I mean, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I love so much for the qualities he offers to the team, but his personality, his nature. I watch him struggle being outside.”

“His availability record is phenomenal, he's rarely been injured, and I am eagerly awaiting to get him back with the squad on the pitch because I feel it’s going to be a significant uplift.”