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Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that his side can continue to cope with fitness issues following revealing that attacker Kai Havertz remains out for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

Havertz has been out for months following knee surgery. Hoped to return earlier in December, Arteta revealed the player faced a hurdle when stepping up his recovery and could not progress “the next phase.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a group that is considerably steadier and has increased versatility,” stated the manager.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This development leaves a tactical puzzle for the midweek match against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between sticking with Mikel Merino, who found the net in an unfamiliar forward role on Sunday, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return after a fitness issue in the latter stages. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also in contention after 11 months out.

Defensive Concerns Linger

Further fitness issues involve centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Stamford Bridge game. Therefore, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to continue in the backline for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta believes the substantial investment on new players during the summer has left Arsenal in a more robust situation to navigate such unavailability.

Greater Options Vital for Title Challenge

When asked if a larger pool of players was aiding their title quest, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, because this season has presented greater challenges in some areas, and now the problems with the defence,” he noted.

“History has shown us that we need to utilize players in alternative spots, and they must be capable to perform various functions if we aim to challenge at this level. And the case of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Star

Speaking about the delay highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered additional context. “He was doing everything. He was unable to progress to the required step and now it appears like we have overcome that hurdle.”

The manager conveyed his keenness to welcome him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. Honestly, it’s a player that, in my view, I value highly for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his nature. I see him suffer being outside.”

“His fitness history is outstanding, he's rarely been injured, and I can’t wait to get him back involved and playing because I feel it’s going to be a huge lift.”