Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has publicly backed striker Viktor Gyokeres, emphasizing the Swede’s value to the team beyond goalscoring, after his drought extended to six games in the Gunners’ 2-0 win over West Ham.
Arteta’s Pep Talk for Gyokeres Proves Goals Aren’t Everything
Despite a goalless afternoon for the summer signing, Arteta’s post-match actions spoke volumes as he personally approached Gyokeres on the pitch to offer encouragement after the final whistle.
The £55 million acquisition from Sporting Lisbon last found the net in mid-September against Nottingham Forest but has since failed to score.
Yet, Arteta’s focus remains firmly on the striker’s overall contribution.
“I just went there and hugged him and said thank you because the work that he does is unbelievable for the team,” Arteta revealed.
“The way he stretches the back four and the spaces he opens. I mean today how he hasn’t scored a goal, I don’t know!”.
Arteta’s supportive stance is not new; he has consistently praised Gyokeres’ performances throughout this dry spell.
Earlier in the week, after a 2-0 Champions League victory over Olympiacos, the manager noted, “What I sense is that he’s doing better and better things every game”.
He acknowledged that while everyone wants the striker to score, his work rate and team play remain “exceptional”.
This view is shared by pundits. Premier League legend Alan Shearer also recently hailed Gyokeres for his impactful running and strength, calling him a “threat” despite not getting on the scoresheet.
The victory over West Ham, secured by goals from Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, sent Arsenal to the top of the Premier League table.
Gyokeres now joins the Swedish national team for their international fixtures before returning to club action.
Arsenal’s next match is against Fulham at Craven Cottage on October 18, giving Gyokeres another opportunity to convert his all-around performances into the goals both he and the manager are waiting for.
