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Kai Havertz hamstring injury a hammer blow for Arsenal

Kai Havertz was injured during a Dubai training camp
Kai Havertz was injured during a Dubai training camp

Arsenal have been dealt a significant blow in their Premier League title quest, with Kai Havertz at risk of missing the remainder of the season with a hamstring injury.

The German forward sustained the injury during the club's warm-weather training camp in Dubai and was due to face further tests on the club’s arrival back in England.

Although Arsenal have not commented on the scale of Havertz’ injury, his possible long-term absence would provide a serious headache for manager Mikel Arteta after the Gunners did not bolster their attacking options during the recent transfer window.

Arsenal failed in their bid to sign Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa last month.

Havertz had been due to lead Arsenal’s line for the remainder of the campaign, with Arteta even admitting it was possible the Germany international could be forced to play every game.

Gabriel Jesus is out for the season after he suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury last month. Bukayo Saka has been absent since December but it is hoped the England international – who travelled with his team-mates to the Middle East – could return next month.

Gabriel Martinelli also faces a spell on the sidelines after he was forced off injured in Arsenal’s Carabao Cup second-leg semi-final defeat at Newcastle last week.

It leaves the Gunners with only Leandro Trossard, Raheem Sterling and Ethan Nwaneri as the club’s recognised forward players.

Arteta is likely to provide an update on Havertz – who has scored 15 goals across 34 appearances this season – in his pre-Leicester press conference on Friday.

The Gunners are six points behind leaders Liverpool, having played a game more.

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