Mikel Arteta will soon have a big decision to make for Arsenal's forward line as the likes of Viktor Gyokeres, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus return to fitness in north London
Viktor Gyokeres celebrates a goal
Arsenal fans want to see Viktor Gyokeres leading the line again following his return from injury
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Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is overseeing a strong season with the Gunners leading the way in the Premier League. But the Spaniard could soon have a big selection dilemma on his hand with injured players returning to the fold.
Arteta's men have a five-point advantage at the Premier League summit despite a number of injuries depleting their forward line. The likes of Viktor Gyokeres, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus have all spent time out of action meaning, like last season, Arteta has been forced to rely upon Mikel Merino to lead the line up as an emergency No 9.
And while Merino has certainly proven himself to be an able deputy, it will soon be time for Arteta to decide who his first-choice No 9 will be.
With Gyokeres coming off the bench last time out and Gabriel Jesus playing in a practice match, last season's primary striker, Kai Havertz, has some stiff competition to beat off if he is to reclaim his spot in the team.
Unfortunately for Havertz, a setback looks set to keep him out for several weeks, but come the New Year, the Arsenal boss may have a significant decision to make.
"We're all desperate to have him," said Arteta of Havertz. "It's a player that personally, I love so much for what he brings to the team. His character, his personality, I see him suffer, being outside. His playing record is phenomenal. He's always been available, and I can't wait to have him back around the team playing now because I think it's going to be a massive boost for the team.
Arsenal poll
Fans have made their feelings clear
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While Havertz is not quite back yet, Gyokeres came off the bench against Chelsea and has, as expected, been Arsenal's most selected striker after joining from Sporting Lisbon for a sum of £64million in the summer. Jesus, a long-term absentee, has also been playing behind closed doors and is ready to return. But with all three now just weeks away from being ready to play, Mirror Football's
WhatsApp channel have had their say on what Arteta should do when he has his full array of options - and perhaps unsurprisingly, summer-signing Gyokeres was the overwhelming favourite.
The Swede picked up more than 70 per cent of the vote, and a share more than five times that of second-place Gabriel Jesus. Despite Merino's impressive performances, supporters are eager to have a more natural option up front.
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