Havertz and Odegaard injuries could hand Eberechi Eze a pivotal chance at Arsenal

# Context and upcoming selection

# Arsenal's options

# The clear numbers

When starting as the number 10: 15 starts, six goals, one assist. When starting on the left: eight starts, one goal, two assists. WhoScored.com averages cited in the article show a higher rating as the 10 (7.08) than on the left (6.76).

# The left wing alternative

Arsenal's left wing is less settled after Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard left in the summer and Christos Tzolis's performances have been mixed. That creates a pathway for Eze to earn starts on the left. However, the statistical drop-off and the club's own assessment suggest the left is a less effective long-term position for him.

If Arteta opts to try Eze on the left, Eze must show clear improvements in output and match influence to make the position his regular role.

# What Eze must do now

• Increase end product: scoring or creating tangible chances when selected. The article frames this as the decisive factor for earning more regular starts.

• Compete directly with Odegaard and Havertz by delivering performances that outweight their absence.

If Eze fails to convert opportunities at number 10 or on the left, the article argues he risks being used primarily as an impact substitute rather than a regular starter.

# Short-term outlook

In the immediate term, injuries to Havertz and Odegaard create a real selection opportunity against Leeds. That match will be an early indicator of whether Eze can convert intermittent appearances into a sustained starting role.

If he performs well as the 10, the statistical case and skill profile support a longer run in that role. If he struggles, his pathway to regular football likely narrows to substitute appearances or sporadic starts on the wing.

# Bottom line

Eze's next starts matter. Arsenal's short-term absences at the top of the attacking midfield pecking order provide a window for him to demonstrate consistent end product and claim a regular role, preferably behind the striker where his metrics are stronger.