Premier League46 min ago2 minute read

Havertz and Konsa In Arsenal Starting Eleven Against Leeds

Kai Havertz and Ezri Konsa are selected in Arsenal's starting lineup to face Leeds United following recent injury concerns on international duty.

The EagleEyeOdds deskWritten from the match data, checked against our model before it goes out

Starters Return After Injury Scares

Kai Havertz and Ezri Konsa are both in the Arsenal starting lineup to play Leeds United. The duo had previously left their national team camps during the recent Nations League fixtures because of injury problems.

Havertz lasted just 30 minutes in Germany's first match of the window against Netherlands. He was forced off early and then returned to Arsenal to receive further treatment on his injury.

Konsa took part in England's matches against Spain and Croatia. However, he stepped down from the squad right before their home fixture against Czechia.

Arteta Fitness Comments and Bench Decisions

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta addressed the fitness of both players during his news conference on Friday. Speaking about Havertz, Arteta said, "With Kai, he had a muscular injury, so I spoke to Jurgen [Klopp] and immediately they sent the player back, as is normal."

Arteta also commented on Konsa's situation. He stated, "Ezri has been carrying some issues as well and we had good communication with the England camp about that."

Many expected Havertz's fitness concerns to give Viktor Gyökeres a chance in the starting team. Gyökeres scored four goals for Sweden during the Nations League break. Instead, the Swedish forward sits on the bench again as his wait for a first league start continues.

Further Arsenal Selection Changes

Declan Rice earns a spot in the Arsenal starting lineup after sitting out England's recent spate of games.

Myles Lewis-Skelly steps back into the starting lineup as well. Lewis-Skelly was restricted to a bench role in Arsenal's previous league fixture against Brighton.

Noni Madueke gets the start on the left wing ahead of Eberechi Eze. Meanwhile, Christos Tzolis misses out on the squad because he is sidelined with injury.

What it means for the next game

Arsenal vs Leeds United (Premier League, Sat, 10 Oct): Arsenal win 65%, draw 22%, Leeds United win 13%; expected goals 1.96 to 0.76. Our safest pick: Arsenal or Draw.

Arsenal vs Lille (Champions League, Tue, 13 Oct): Arsenal win 68%, draw 21%, Lille win 11%; expected goals 2.04 to 0.70. Our safest pick: Arsenal draw no bet.