Arsenal forward Kai Havertz is in contention to return for their Premier League home fixture against Newcastle United, following a rapid recovery from hamstring surgery.

Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed that a final decision on Havertz’s involvement will be made after assessment by the medical team.

Initially expected to miss the remainder of the season, Havertz has resumed partial training and could feature in Arsenal’s final two matches.

Despite being sidelined for over three months, he remains the club’s top scorer in the league with nine goals and 15 in all competitions.

Arteta commended the efforts of both Havertz and the medical staff in accelerating his recovery and emphasized the player’s importance to the team.

The manager also indicated that several other key players, including Declan Rice, Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli, and Jurriën Timber, will undergo late fitness tests ahead of Sunday’s match.

Arsenal currently sits second in the Premier League on 68 points, with Newcastle close behind in third on 66.

A win for Arsenal would confirm their qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League, while Newcastle are aiming for a top-two finish for the first time in nearly three decades.

Arteta noted the significance of the match and the importance of a strong performance, particularly given Newcastle’s success against Arsenal earlier this season in the league and the League Cup semi-finals.

He also highlighted the emotional value of the final home game, calling it an opportunity to secure Champions League football and show appreciation to the supporters.

When asked about the value of Champions League qualification in comparison to winning trophies, Arteta acknowledged the importance of the achievement while choosing not to directly reference past statements made by former manager Arsène Wenger.

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