Havertz silences the critics and exposes the toxic reality at Arsenal

I do not know why so many people do this to themselves. Kai Havertz became a lightning rod for Mikel Arteta’s critics very quickly but going beyond the frankly childish ‘in and out’ brigades battling away behind keyboards and webcams, the German international began to accrue a band of critics that have slunk away faster than any Homer Simpson meme can represent.

But as we discuss every day on The Arsenal Way and on social media, comments, posts and replies have been filled with reactionary and toxic words which in some sad cases amounted to abuse toward Havertz. Calls for him to be sold, labels of ‘useless’ and a ‘waste of money’ persistently peppering feeds on multiple platforms.

To that, I say, where are these people now and how awful do you feel? The reality is however if you’re willing to abuse a player that pulls on the red and white of your club, I doubt the empathetic ability for self-reflection in one’s actions even exists anyway.

I loved the “Hav that” post he made during the US pre-season tour, more of that, please. It is sure to take more time for him to settle and I understand that but it is clear that thousands of others haven’t so a reprieve that can be brought about by this assist is sure to be a big help.

Next up for the German international and after the break with his country will be his former side, Chelsea. Arsenal have a great recent record at Stamford Bridge where Havertz was on hand to witness the Gunners continually stealing points away from West London.Can he now continue that fine record and in what capacity? As Thomas Partey returns, question marks over where Havertz will start, if at all, have emerged to showcase the depth that, prior to all the injuries, was a big benefit to Mikel Arteta’s squad.