Mikel Arteta has insisted there will be “enough minutes for everyone” after Viktor Gyokeres was left as an unused substitute for the second consecutive week, with Arsenal also granting Ethan Nwaneri permission to join Borussia Dortmund on loan for the remainder of the season.
Gyokeres’ lack of involvement has raised eyebrows given the Sweden international’s importance to Arsenal’s plans following his arrival at the club. The striker was again named among the substitutes but was not called upon, prompting questions over his current role and whether his limited involvement could become a wider concern.
Arteta, however, played down any suggestion that Gyokeres has fallen out of favour and explained that his decisions have been influenced by the physical condition of players within his squad.
The Arsenal boss hinted that several players who started the match were unable to complete the full 90 minutes, meaning he had to carefully manage his available options
He said: ‘It was a squad victory and we knew it was going to be a long match. The game was going to shift and they were going to have moments because they are very capable of doing that, especially when you lose the ball in certain areas.
‘There are still things to improve but I loved the attitude of every single player that was on the pitch.
‘It was a squad performance and a squad victory today and I’m sad for the ones that didn’t have the chance to play because they all want to be participating.
‘But sometimes you have certain issues with players physically that you have to make changes and I’m sure there are going to be minutes for everybody.’
Gyokeres will naturally want to play. A striker of his profile needs regular minutes to build rhythm, confidence and an understanding with his teammates.
Leaving him unused for two consecutive matches is unlikely to become a major issue by itself, but ARSENAL will need to ensure the situation does not develop into a longer-term problem.
The transfer speculation surrounding Barcelona and Alvarez only adds another layer of intrigue. Arsenal should be focused on getting the best out of Gyokeres rather than allowing rumours to distract from his role.
If Arteta can manage his squad effectively while ensuring Gyokeres receives enough opportunities, there is little reason to believe the striker cannot become a major contributor for ARSENAL this season.
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