Havertz intent on leading the way for GER in World Cup after injury struggles

Kai Havertz is determined to "lead the way" for Germany at the World Cup after an injury-strewn season.

Havertz has made just 14 appearances in all competitions for Arsenal this season, having suffered a knee injury on the opening day of the season.

However, he has settled back into the team since his return in January, netting three goals (none in the Premier League) and registering two assists.

Arsenal lost the EFL Cup final to Manchester City last weekend, but still have a potential treble in their sights as they continue to fight for the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup titles.

The 26-year-old is relishing the busy schedule he has with Arsenal as he also looks to step up his performance ahead of the tournament.

"We [Arsenal] have many ‌matches ⁠in three competitions," he said.

"I missed the first six months of the season, and I will give it all for the club, and to be able to go with a lot of confidence to the World Cup.

"I want to be successful at this World Cup and lead the way."

Havertz is back in the Germany squad for the first time in more than a year, having missed all three international breaks in the first half of the season due to injury.

"I had a tough time. It was not easy for me," Havertz told a press conference ahead of Germany's friendly against hosts Switzerland.

"I had my first injury in February ⁠last year, three and a half months out, then come back, and then a setback with the knee injury.

"I now feel completely fit. I need the one or other game from the start to reach 100%, but I feel fit to start lasting over 90 minutes."

Germany's World Cup campaign begins on June 14 against tournament debutants Curacao, while they have also been drawn in Group E alongside Ivory Coast and Ecuador.

Since winning the competition for a fourth time in Brazil 12 years ago, Germany have struggled on the world stage, enduring two group-stage exits in both 2018 and 2022.