Michael Owen says £64m Arsenal star is not ‘the answer’ in the title race | Football
TL;DR – Two-minute read
Viktor Gyokeres faced scrutiny regarding his performance for Arsenal after his £64m transfer last summer, contributing to doubts expressed by Michael Owen. With eight goals in 24 league matches and a mixed season, Owen suggested that Mikel Arteta may prefer Gabriel Jesus or Kai Havertz in crucial fixtures as the title race intensified.
Michael Owen questions Viktor Gyokeres’ impact at Arsenal
Former Liverpool striker Michael Owen has expressed doubts regarding Viktor Gyokeres’ ability to be a decisive player for Arsenal as the Premier League title race intensifies. Owen’s comments follow Gyokeres’ mixed performance since his £64 million transfer from Sporting Lisbon last summer, notably after the player has experienced two significant goal droughts this season.
While the 27-year-old has shown improvement under manager Mikel Arteta, with six goals in his last nine appearances, Owen remains sceptical. He stated he believes Arteta may prefer to rely on Gabriel Jesus or Kai Havertz in crucial matches as the season nears its climax.
Owen’s Assessment of Gyokeres
Owen, who is the UK ambassador for the online casino comparison site Casino.org, commented, “Listen, I don’t mind him. I think he’ll definitely be a source of goals if you play him in every game. But then again, I could probably play in every game for Arsenal… But is he the answer? I’m not so sure.” He added that while Gyokeres is a valuable asset, fans might expect more given his hefty price tag.
Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright has a similar view, labelling Gyokeres a “maybe” in terms of impact. He suggested that if Arsenal successfully clinches the Premier League title this season, Gyokeres could develop further in the role.
Upcoming Fixture for Arsenal
Arsenal will aim to maintain their focus and keep their quadruple hopes alive on Sunday as they host League One side Wigan Athletic in the FA Cup fourth round.