Arsenal’s new striker, Viktor Gyokeres, had plenty of attention on him during Sweden’s latest World Cup Qualifier against Slovenia.
Gyokeres joined Arsenal in the summer transfer window for £64million, and there have been plenty of eyeballs on all of his performances so far.
While he hasn’t quite set the Premier League alight in his first three performances, the signs have been clear that he’s got the potential to help make a difference for Mikel Arteta’s side.
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However, on Friday night, he was dealing with a different type of pressure as he led the line for Sweden to help bolster their World Cup qualification campaign.
Viktor Gyokeres in action for Arsenal at Old Trafford
Photo by Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Offside via Getty Images
Viktor Gyokeres was ‘very strong’ for Sweden
Sweden drew their game against Slovenia 2-2, despite leading twice after goals from Anthony Elanga and Yasin Ayari.
A 90th-minute equaliser from Zan Vipotnik provided late heartbreak for Sweden, but Swedish media outlet Fotbollskanalen had plenty of praise for Gyokeres’ efforts.
‘Very strong when the cross came and held it away and passed the ball to Ayari, who netted. Strong, unyielding, and loyal, and did a great job. Often had two opponents on him.’
Match Stats Gyokeres
Touches 47
Successful Dribbles 1/3 (33%)
Accurate Passes 20/31 (65%)
Recoveries 2
Viktor Gyokeres’ stats vs Slovenia – via FotMob
The striker, showcasing his ability to be physical and strong, will stand him in good stead given the demands of the Premier League, which shows he can cope with Arsenal.
That is why Roy Keane believes Gyokeres will thrive for the Gunners this season, as the pundit has backed the striker to be a success in London.
Gyokeres may not have got on the Sweden scoresheet this time out, but he did pick up an assist in the game.
Viktor Gyokeres during Arsenal vs Manchester United.
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
Viktor Gyokeres has yet to dazzle in an Arsenal shirt
Gyokeres proved himself to be a goal machine during his time at Sporting Lisbon, which has brought plenty of expectation from Arsenal fans, who have been wanting a lethal striker for some time.
Football data expert Ian Graham has predicted Gyokeres will score fewer goals for Arsenal than he did in Portugal, but it will remain to be seen if that’s the case.
The Sweden international opened his Arsenal account during their 6-0 win against Leeds United as he bagged a brace, but he struggled to make an impact against Liverpool and Manchester United.
Gyokeres hit back at critics of his early performances at Arsenal, making it clear that he’s not going to take that during his time at the club.