Kai Havertz gets his flowers! USMNT star Folarin Balogun leads congratulatory messages to Arsenal forward after he silences critics with crucial winning goal vs Brentford

The Gunners were heading for a drab 0-0 draw away to a plucky Brentford side, when manager Mikel Arteta made a crucial substitution in the 79th minute. Havertz was brought on and scored a vital winner with mere minutes remaining, silencing his many critics in the process. The 24-year-old took to social media after the vital strike - and his former Arsenal team-mate Balogun was among the many people to send their support in the comments.

The German wrote on Instagram: "BIG win on the road!! Thank you for all the support ❤️ Another big game to prepare for now. #COYG". Those in the comments ranged from sporting director Edu Gaspar to Gunners legend Ian Wright, with Balogun summarising Havertz's cool finish with a cold face emoji.

IG: kaihavertz29

Indeed, Havertz's goal was a significant one, particularly on a personal level. The former Chelsea man has failed to live up to his eye-watering £65 million price tag, with a penalty against Bournemouth back in September his only other strike before Saturday's encounter. The German has even been experimented in a new position by international manager Julian Nagelsmann in an attempt to make the most of his qualities.

The goal was crucial for the Gunners, too, as the draw between Manchester City and Liverpool in the day's early kick-off meant Arteta's side climbed to the top of the league with the win. They are in European action next, and will need a draw at home to Lens on Wednesday to secure passage to the Champions League knock-outs.