Kai Havertz insists goalkeeper Mark Travers ‘understood’ why he was penalised and conceded a controversial penalty in Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Bournemouth.

The Gunners moved, temporarily at least, four points clear at the top of the Premier League following an ultimately convincing victory over the in-form Cherries.

It looked as though a nervy afternoon was in store, however, after the current leaders wasted a catalogue of chances during the opening period.

The deadlock was eventually broken on the stroke of half-time when Bukayo Saka put his side ahead from 12 yards, calmly rolling the ball past a wrongfooted Travers.

The award of the spot kick, however, angered Bournemouth who felt Havertz had initiated contact with their player after he had collected Martin Odegaard’s pass and rounded the onrushing goalkeeper.

Asked about the decision after the game, Havertz told TNT Sports: ‘I mean I haven’t seen the replay but he touches me.

‘In the situation I felt the contact and that’s why I went down for meit’s a pen and I said to the goalkeeper as well you touched me he understood on the pitch.

‘Maybe it’s not that clear but I think you can give it for sure.’

Aside from his role in the penalty decision, Havertz produced another accomplished display leading the line with distinction, offering a constant threat in behind and providing a real outlet.

Asked about what has prompted his major improvement, the former Chelsea star said: ‘I just enjoy it on the pitch right now. It’s so nice. I have so many good players behind me and I really enjoy the number nine role.

‘We have two more games to play and we are going to give everything. We’ll enjoy those games and see how it goes.

‘I enjoy every second. He [Mikel Arteta] taught me so many things, especially at the start when it was tough for me. I’m so glad I was here. Things were hard at a the start but everyone stuck by me.

‘I work hard but for me it’s not easy to go into a new team. Sometimes I’m a shy guy.

‘To go into a new team with a new manager and different players then it can be tough. I came from Chelsea and that didn’t make it easy too. The manager has helped a lot and the players. The fans have been unbelievable.

‘I needed maybe to change my game a bit. When I came form Germany I realised it’s not easy to survive in this league. I had to adapt and I’ve done it well. I enjoy contact with my opponents and aerial duels too.’

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