Kai Havertz marked his first start in almost a year with a goal and an assist as Arsenal made it eight wins from eight in the Champions League with a 3-2 success over Kairat Almaty to seal their spot as league phase winners. Havertz, whose last start came 357 days ago, showed the Gunners exactly what they had been missing when he set up Viktor Gyokeres for an early opener before adding a second himself with a fine run and finish after Jorginho had equalised for the visitors from the penalty spot.

Arsenal extended their lead at the top of the Premier League last weekend by picking up a point at Nottingham Forest while their only two title rivals, Manchester City and Aston Villa, both lost. However, the dour 0-0 draw at the City Ground, which was only enlivened by a late row over a disputed penalty shout, raised some serious questions over the visitors' attacking threat, given it was their second consecutive scoreless stalemate, after being held at home by Liverpool the week before.

Arsenal have been left concerned over the long-term fitness of Kai Havertz after the striker sustained a setback in his recovery from a knee injury. The Germany international sustained the issue against Manchester United in August and has not started for the club since.

Arsenal's match with Liverpool will be played in its own dedicated slot within this midweek round of Premier League fixtures. It will receive maximum exposure both domestically and abroad. There will be no hiding place for any player that sets foot on the Emirates Stadium pitch on Thursday, not least the Gunners' marquee summer signing Viktor Gyokeres.

Arsenal are edging closer to a significant injury lift after Mikel Arteta confirmed Kai Havertz is on the brink of returning to action. The German forward, absent since undergoing knee surgery in August, is now just days away from rejoining the squad, offering renewed depth and flexibility as the Premier League leaders prepare for a demanding festive schedule.