The experts are divided now that Gyokeres shines against Burnley, but the big question remains. Arsenal maintained their lead in the Premier League with a convincing 2-0 away win against Burnley last weekend. The win put Viktor Gyokeres center stage. While Gyokeres has received plenty of praise, it has sparked renewed debate over whether he can be a game-changer in the biggest games.
A dominant display at Turf Moor
Gyokeres played a role in the Gunners’ first-half destruction of Burnley. It was his potentially best 45 minutes in an Arsenal shirt. The Swedish international was first on the scoresheet. He drove a shorter distance home via a clever set-piece involving Gabriel and Declan Rice. Away from goal his versatility was excellent. He showed his abilities, speed and intuition. Furthermore, an “exquisite” cross-field pass that freed Leandro Trossard was particularly used in the build-up to Arsenal’s second goal from Rice.
Manager Mikel Arteta was effusive in his praise. He said: “I think it was one of the best games he has played… his performance was exceptional”. The only downer was his precautionary substitution during half time due to a muscle problem. That will be monitored ahead of Arsenal’s upcoming Champions League match.
The lingering question mark
Despite the clear impact on Turf Moor, a sharp question from experts Micah Richards continues to float above the spire. The question is “can he make a difference in the bigger games?”. Richards, who expects Gyokeres to score 21 league goals this season, has stressed that the ultimate test for the forward will come against the likes of Manchester City and Real Madrid, and in the decisive late stages of the title race and the Champions League.
This season’s data lends itself to that debate. Of Gyoker’s four Premier League goals this season, most of which came against newly promoted Burnley and Leeds United as well as struggling Nottingham Forest, questions remain over his ability to make a difference in the biggest moments.
A counterargument and looking ahead
So far, Gyokeres has responded to his critics with a man of the match performance. The coming weeks, which are crucial in terms of league and European matches, will give him the last chance to end the debate among the divided experts and prove that everyone is right.
As stated on GoonerNews.com
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