Ex-Chelsea coach says 'great lad' Kai Havertz has NOT improved since joining Arsenal

Yesterday at 11:57 AM

Kai Havertz has not improved since joining Arsenal, according to Jody Morris.

The former Chelsea coach does not believe there is a ‘massive difference’ in the German’s performances for the Gunners so far.

Havertz joined Arsenal from the Blues after three years at Stamford Bridge.

Morris was at Chelsea when Havertz was signed, having been Frank Lampard’s assistant between 2019 and 2021.

Asked if Mikel Arteta is getting more out of Havertz than he and Lampard did, he told White & Jordan: “Well, I think the numbers would maybe suggest that, but I don’t think there’s a massive difference in him.

“I think there’s still question marks over what’s his best position.

“In fairness to Kai, and he’s a great lad, I think when he and Timo [Werner] came into the club, like I said before, it was middle of COVID. It’s hard to integrate these players.

“They’ve just come to a new country. Young lads. I think he’s grown up a little bit since he’s been at Arsenal, I have to say. And you’ve got to say that Arteta has done a real good job with him.

“There’s questions still being asked, do Arsenal need a number nine? So I’m not sure that he isn’t being questioned himself.

“But he’s a player that I think on his day can score goals, but he’s also a player that can go on a run with maybe not producing as many goal scoring opportunities.”

Havertz scored five goals and provided five assists in 33 appearances across two spells playing under Lampard.

He later went on to score the winner in the Champions League final following the former Chelsea midfielder’s exit in January 2021.

The 25-year-old was still at the club when Lampard returned as caretaker boss for the final 11 matches of the 2022/23 season.

However, Havertz failed to find the target during his second stint playing under Lampard.

Since joining Arsenal last summer, the Germany international has scored 21 goals in 68 appearances.

He has also added eight assists playing as both a striker and attacking midfielder.

Havertz’s goal output includes seven goals across all competitions so far this term.