Kai Havertz is back: Arsenal forward could overcome season-ending injury and make return in crucial Newcastle clash

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Kai Havertz could feature in the Gunners' clash with Newcastle on Sunday after hamstring surgery.

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• Havertz has been out since February
• In line to return against Magpies
• Arsenal still need to confirm top-five finish

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  Havertz sustained what was reported to be a season-ending injury during Arsenal's warm-weather training camp in Dubai in February, but he is now in line to return against Newcastle this weekend. The Gunners still need to secure one more point to confirm qualification for the Champions League, despite currently sitting second in the table. They could finish as low as sixth, should results go against them.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Havertz's return, as such, is a boon for manager Mikel Arteta ahead of their clash with the Magpies, who have designs on second place themselves. Eddie Howe's side are two points behind Arsenal and will be desperate to consolidate their place in the top-five.

• WHAT ARTETA SAID

  Asked about Havertz's availability, Arteta told reporters: "We're going to decide that tomorrow. He's done certain parts of the sessions in the past two days. He looks in great shape but it is more the medical staff giving the clearance then how Kai actually feels to contribute."

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  WHAT NEXT?

  Arsenal face Newcastle on Sunday before rounding off their campaign against already-relegated Southampton.