Mikel Arteta made sure Kai Havertz received an ovation from the travelling Arsenal supporters after he scored a dramatic late winner in their Premier League clash against Brentford.
It has been a frustrating start to life in North London for Havertz, who joined the Gunners from Chelsea this summer in a £65 million deal.
He finally opened his account for Arsenal at the end of September, when he converted from the penalty spot in a 4-0 win over Bournemouth.
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It was a goal that was greeted with a loud cheer from Arsenal's travelling supporters, who chanted his name to Shakira's hit song Waka Waka.
And on a cold Saturday night in West London, the iconic chant rang around Brentford's Gtech Community Stadium after the German bagged an 89th minute winner – his first goal from open play for the Gunners.
After the full-time whistle, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta grabbed match-winner Havertz and put him a headlock before dragging him over to the travelling support.
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Havertz would later thank supporters for keeping the faith in recent months. "I am so thankful for these guys," he told TNT Sports.
"It is hard when a new signing comes and they pay a lot of money for you. I am just thankful they keep supporting me."
The 24-year-old added: "It feels amazing. I’ve been working hard for these moments, today I got it paid back and I’m just happy to help the team with that.
"Football is always hard work, nothing comes from itself you have to work hard and keep belief. I know it was tough for me the last couple of months, but I tried to put my ego aside as well because the team is the most important thing."
Arteta, who has continued to defend his big-money signing, would go on to praise the German in his post-match press conference.
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When asked if that sort of late run and finish was why he signed Havertz, the Spaniard said: "Yes. Absolutely yes. Against these blocks, and against teams that defend the box like this, you need this kind of profile.
"He’s exceptional at that. Today he won the game in that action for us."
Thoughts on Havertz's late goal? Let us know in the comments.
Featured Image Credit: X/@footballontntTopics: Kai Havertz, Arsenal, Mikel Arteta, Premier League
