Kai Havertz has been commended for his progress by Martin Keown and Tom Lockyer, with Arsenal forward receiving praise for his development.

Kai Havertz of Arsenal FC put on a stellar performance during the Premier League match against Luton Town at Emirates Stadium on April 3, 2024 in London, England. The Gunners secured a comfortable 2-0 victory over the Hatters, with Havertz playing as the striker.

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown and Luton captain Tom Lockyer were full of praise for Havertz’s improvement after the match. This win propels Arsenal to the top of the table with 30 points, one ahead of second-placed Liverpool.

Keown initially had doubts about Havertz following his move from Chelsea in the summer for a hefty £65 million fee on a long-term contract. However, he now believes that Havertz has become a crucial player for Arsenal, stating, “It was one of those where I looked at it when he came in and I thought ‘I’m just going to hold up my opinion.’ I wasn’t sure at the beginning.”

Keown further explained, “In the Community Shield, he played as a centre-forward and I didn’t see the work rate or the running into the channels, and [Eddie] Nketiah came in the next game and I saw that change. Then they moved him into midfield. Now he’s in his proper position as a front player. [He’s] very definitely [at his best there].”

Keown highlighted Havertz’s intelligence and ability to ghost through the opposition’s defense, making him a difficult player to mark. He also praised Havertz’s effectiveness in creating opportunities for Arsenal, stating, “He’s so intelligent; he ghosts through. As a centre-half, you want someone to mark, but when he keeps disappearing into midfield all the time you get a bit nervous, and suddenly he’s there with two or three other players, so he can be really effective and that’s working for Arsenal.”

Lockyer echoed Keown’s sentiments, emphasizing Havertz’s comfort in his current role. He commended Havertz’s double movements and selfless runs, which may not always be captured by the cameras but contribute to the team’s success. Lockyer stated, “He’s really at home now. The amount of times he did double movement today where he went short off [Teden] Mengi and then spun in behind, and he would have got the ball if it was played to him.”

Lockyer further added, “When someone works as hard as that, making those selfless runs, then something will fall in the end.”

Overall, Havertz’s impressive performance and improvement have been recognized by both former Arsenal player Keown and Luton captain Lockyer. Arsenal fans can now look forward to seeing Havertz continue to excel in his role as a front player for the team.