Mikel Arteta confirms whether injured Arsenal forward will play vs PSG

Mikel Arteta provided another positive injury update on Kai Havertz, but has suggested that Arsenal's Champions League semi-final with Paris Saint-Germain will arrive too soon for the German.

Reports broke last week regarding the potential of Havertz to return from a hamstring tear before the end of the season having initially been projected to miss the entirety of the campaign when the major setback occurred in February.

Arsenal's deep Champions League run has opened the door for the forward to play a role during the final weeks of the season, with the Gunners progressing into the last four of the competition for the first time since 2009 after slaying Real Madrid in the quarter-finals.

With Gabriel Jesus also out, Mikel Merino has stepped up to fill the void up top and has proven to be inspired mitigation in Arsenal's frontline.

Kai Havertz unlikely to return from injury in time to face PSG

Merino was excellent over the two legs against Madrid, as he had a direct hand in three of the five goals Arsenal scored. The Spaniard's form has ensured Havertz's absence hasn't been too costly, although the club have already surrendered in the Premier League title race.

It's Champions League or bust down the stretch.

While Merino has exceeded expectations, Havertz's return before the season draws to a close would undoubtedly be a big boost for Arteta's side, especially if they reach the final in Munich on 26 May. However, before they think about either Barcelona or Inter, Arsenal must first take care of a scintillating PSG outfit that have evolved drastically since they rocked up at the Emirates in October.

Ahead of Sunday's Premier League clash with Ipswich, Arteta was asked about Havertz's potential availability for the semi-final at the end of April/start of May. Here's what he said in response (via afcstuff):

"“I think that’s too close but if I have to bet on him earlier than expected, I would say yes. The way he works every day in the gym, I don’t think you can hold him much longer!”"

Arteta on Havertz returning for PSG

The boss hasn't yet completely ruled Havertz out of playing part against the Ligue 1 champions, but it currently seems unlikely for Havertz to feature. However, it looks as if he'd be available for the final if the Gunners advance. The club's remaining Premier League games may count for very little in the grand scheme of things, but they could be used to freshen up Havertz ahead of a potential trip to Bavaria.

READ THE LATEST ARSENAL NEWS HERE!