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

Kai Havertz scored a crucial winner for Arsenal against Brentford on Saturday – and USMNT forward Folarin Balogun was one of many to congratulate him.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

• Havertz scores last gasp goal
• Arsenal beat Brentford 1-0
• Balogun gives German his flowers

• Table of Contents

  Toggle

  WHAT HAPPENED?

  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.

Advertisement

• WHAT HAVERTZ AND BALOGUN SAID

  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

• THE BIGGER PICTURE

  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.

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

• Getty Images
  

  WHAT NEXT FOR ARSENAL?

  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.