Arsenal have been dealt a blow in their pursuit of catching Liverpool at the top of the Premier League after it was confirmed that Kai Havertz is set to miss the rest of the season. Mikel Arteta's side have endured a torrid time with injuries in attacking quarters.

First, Bukayo Saka tore his hamstring and required surgery following a 5-1 win over Crystal Palace in December. The 22-year-old hasn't featured since and is not expected to return until at least March.

Gabriel Jesus then injured his Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) against Manchester United last month, and he has been ruled out for the remainder of the season. Gabriel Martinelli added further concern after he limped off during the 2-0 defeat at Newcastle United on February 5 and is set to be out for around four to six weeks.

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Now, Arteta has been handed a fresh setback. A fourth first-team attacker has now suffered an injury, with Havertz tearing his hamstring during Arsenal's training camp in Dubai. The Athletic report that the Germany star is expected to not feature again this season and his focus is on getting fit for the 2025/2026 campaign.

It's unclear whether Havertz requires surgery, but that is not going to matter when it comes to his availability for the rest of the season. The ex-Chelsea forward has been fit for almost every game this season, registering 15 goals and five assists in 34 appearances across all competitions.

Liverpool, who will meet Everton at Goodison Park on Wednesday night, are no doubt going to be boosted by the news that Arsenal have lost another forward player to injury. Arne Slot's Reds can move nine points clear at the top of the Premier League with a win over the Toffees and could already have one hand on the title.

Speaking ahead of Liverpool's final-ever trip across Stanley Park to Goodison, Slot said: "I think it's an extra reason why the atmosphere will probably be even better than all the occasions before. I haven't been to one, but people tell me at Goodison Park - as at Anfield - it's always a fantastic atmosphere. Home supporters are there to support their team and the away fans are mostly loud as well.

"It's probably going to be a fantastic atmosphere. And that's never easy to play against because every single time they cross the halfway line, or they get a corner kick, or whatever happens, the fans will cheer for that."

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