Arsenal's Viktor Gyokeres celebrates scoring their first goal with teammates
Arsenal were handed an injury blow last week when Kai Havertz was forced to withdraw from international action for Germany. It's a relief, therefore, to see Viktor Gyokeres in amongst the goals for Sweden.
Mikel Arteta has preferred the German so far this season, with Havertz starting every Premier League fixture of the season, and scoring against Coventry City and Chelsea. The injury-prone forward is now nursing a hamstring injury and has left the international camp early to return to London and receive treatment.
Despite the Gunners failing to score in the 3-0 defeat to Brighton, Havertz would likely have started when Leeds United visit next weekend. That role is now up for grabs, and Gyokeres looks ready to rise to the occasion.
Viktor Gyokeres praised for 'outstanding' Sweden performance
Action Images via Reuters/Paul Childs
It's been a difficult start to the campaign for the Swedish talisman. Gyokeres has played just 207 minutes of football for Arsenal, with only 29 of those coming in the Premier League, and is yet to score.
The striker endured barren spells last term but did still plunder 21 goals across all competitions and will feel that he deserves more minutes for Arsenal. An injury to Havertz will certainly open up a path for that but, even if his teammate isn't sidelined against Leeds United, Gyokeres is staking a claim for the starting berth.
The 28-year-old was on target as Sweden picked up a 3-1 win over Poland on Monday night and turned in the kind of industrious performance that is hard to ignore. The forward was a workhorse leading the line and caused constant headaches for the Polish defenders.
Swedish outlet Sportbladet published an article titled 'A match that showed Gyokeres' greatness' and heaped praise on the player for his dedication, even during long periods of isolation up top.
Meanwhile, after the match, Sweden manager Graham Potter said: "I thought he was outstanding in the second half. What we did better in the second half was recognising when he was in a one-on-one situation.
“Even if he doesn't clearly win the initial duel, you can win the second ball. You can attack large spaces. You can build play through the midfield or the centre-backs. It’s great having him; he gives you an outlet.
“Viktor needs to buy into that too - when there’s open space and the responsibility is placed on him, just like with anyone else in the world.”
Gyokeres loves playing against Leeds United
Arsenal's Viktor Gyokeres celebrates scoring
That performance will certainly have sent a message to Arteta, and it's not the only reason why the Gunners should call on Gyokeres against Leeds United. The striker bagged three goals against the Whites last term, netting a brace in the 5-0 romp at the Emirates Stadium before also finding the back of the net at Elland Road.
After those first goals against Leeds United, Arteta hailed the player as 'dangerous' and noted his ability to run in behind as a 'superpower' - but Arsenal fans saw that regularly last term.
It can't have been easy for Gyokeres to have a watching role so far this season and the striker's Swedish exploits will be a reminder of what scoring feels like. With Havertz out and one of his favourite opponents next, it's time for the bagsman to shine.