Viktor Gyokeres scored twice as Arsenal demolished Atletico Madrid and Paul Merson has praised the striker.
Following a subdued opening to the fixture, the Gunners sprang to life in the second half, scoring four goals against Atletico.
Gabriel Martinelli praised Gabriel Magalhaes after his Brazilian teammate scored and played a key role in yet another clean sheet at the Emirates.
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But the night belonged to Viktor Gyokeres, who ended a seven-game goalless run with a brace.
Viktor Gyokeres during Arsenal FC v Atletico de Madrid - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD3
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
Paul Merson praises unselfish Viktor Gyokeres
Speaking live on Sky Sports after the match, Paul Merson expressed worry about the Swede’s display in the first 45 on Tuesday.
He said: “As a centre-forward you want to score goals, even though you’re working hard and the crowd are clapping everything he does.
“First half, nine touches, not one in the box. That’s a worry.”
However, Merson was quick to praise his second-half showing and highlight what an unselfish player the former Sporting man is.
He added: “Come second half, you know what I like, he just keeps on going, and going, and going. He isn’t all about himself. He’s about the team.
“If he gets the ball down the channel, he’ll play the easy ball for the team. He won’t try and cut inside and have a 30-yard shot that’s never, ever going to go in.”
Viktor Gyokeres during a UEFA Champions League clash between Arsenal and Olympiakos
Photo by Shaun Brooks – CameraSport via Getty Images
Viktor Gyokeres message to Arsenal fans
There have been doubts about Gyokeres following his summer transfer.
But a quick-fire brace that earned him the Player of the Match award should silence those critics for a short time.
After picking up the POTM award, the Swede took to Instagram to share a message to the Arsenal faithful.
He said: “Thank you guys for tonight. It was an amazing win, amazing support, and see you again soon.”