Ahead of the crucial Premier League encounter against Newcastle this weekend, both teams having the opportunity to seal Champions League qualification, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed the return of Havertz and Rice to training.
Such timely interventions would be a huge boost to the tender. The German midfielder might feature as Arteta said, “He’s just started weeks of lately doing some of the sessions. Credit to him and the medical team — he looks in great shape.”
Arteta stated that being very clinical in this final home fixture of the season is imperative: “It’s our chance to finish second and thank our supporters. We have to be very clinical against a team like Newcastle.” Another candid reflection of Arteta on the season holds that he feels no regrets while the team failed in its title push and Champions League exit: “We’ve given our very best.”
On the issue of player departures, including Thomas Partey, Arteta was less forthcoming, coyly remarking, “There are a few cases. We’ll try to show gratitude.” He emphasised the need to be on the same page with the squad before the summer: “The aim is clear — keeping key players happy and building gradually.”
