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Mikel Arteta remains confident that his side can continue to cope with fitness issues following confirming that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

The German forward has been absent since August due to knee surgery. Initially expected to be available at the start of this month, Arteta revealed the player encountered a problem when stepping up his rehabilitation and was unable to move forward “to the next level.”

“Our experience helped us build a team that is much more reliable and has increased versatility,” Arteta said.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This news creates a dilemma for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. Arteta must choose between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who scored playing out of position on Sunday, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return off the bench as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also available after 11 months out.

Fitness Doubts Persist

More doubts affect defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Chelsea match. As a result, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to keep their places in the heart of the defence for the league leaders.

Arteta feels the £250m spend on squad depth during the summer has resulted in a much stronger position to handle such unavailability.

Greater Options Vital for Title Challenge

In response if more options was helping their league challenge, his response was positive. “Absolutely, since the current term has been worse in certain positions, and now what’s happening with the backline,” he continued.

“We learned from the past that we must deploy players in alternative spots, and they need to be prepared to perform various functions if we are to fight at this level. And the instance of Mikel is just the best one.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Havertz

Speaking about the setback highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided further detail. “He followed all protocols. He was unable to progress to the next level and now it’s looking like we have overcome that hurdle.”

Arteta expressed his personal desire to welcome him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. I mean, it’s a player that, in my view, I value highly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his personality, his nature. I observe his frustration on the sidelines.”

“His playing record is phenomenal, he's usually fit, and I can’t wait to get him back involved on the pitch because I think it’s going to be a huge lift.”