Arsenal hold on for vital win at Liverpool after Kai Havertz’s close-range finish

Kai Havertz’s 16th-minute goal secured Arsenal a hard-fought 1-0 win against Liverpool and a three-point lead at the top of the Premier League It was a game when Arsenal showed their ruthless side and all of the champion knowhow that they accumulated over the course of last season. As they headed back to London, they did so having made a statement. Irrespective of what happens to Manchester City over their financial rule breaches, Arsenal remain the Premier League’s team to beat.

Mikel Arteta was in the Arsenal midfield when the club previously won a league fixture at Anfield; it was back in September 2012, although his memories are a little hazy owing to the concussion that he sustained in a collision with Jordan Henderson. Arteta has a clear-eyed focus on retaining the league title and this was an occasion to see his hopes surge. Kai Havertz’s first goal in ten appearances proved the difference but, really, the