The Pundits are divided as Gyokeres shines against Burnley but big-game question remains. Arsenal maintained their lead in the Premier League with a convincing 2-0 away victory against Burnley last weekend. The victory took Viktor Gyokeres at the center stage. While Gyokeres is receiving significant credit, this has prompted another debate regarding whether he can be a game-changer in the biggest matches.
A Dominant Display at Turf Moor
Gyokeres played a role in the first-half destruction of Burnley by the Gunners. It was his potentially best 45 minutes in an Arsenal shirt. The Swedish international was first on the score sheet. He headed home a shorter distance on a clever set-piece involving Gabriel and Declan Rice. Outside of the objective, his versatility was outstanding. He displayed his abilities, speed, and intuition. Moreover, in particular, an “exquisite” cross-field pass that freed Leandro Trossard used in the lead-up to Arsenal’s second goal by Rice.
Manager Mikel Arteta was effusive in his praise. He stated, “I think it was one of the best games that he’s played… his performance was exceptional”. The only dampener was his precautionary substitution at half-time due to a muscular issue. That will be in monitor ahead of Arsenal’s upcoming Champions League fixture.
The Lingering Question Mark
Despite the clear impact at Turf Moor, a pointed question from pundit Micah Richards continues to hover over the striker. The question is “can he make the difference in the bigger games?”. Richards, who projects Gyokeres could score 21 league goals this season, has emphasized that the striker’s ultimate test will come against the likes of Manchester City and Real Madrid, and in the decisive late stages of the title race and Champions League.
The data this season lends itself to that debate. Of Gyokeres four Premier League goals this season, most of which have come against newly-promoted Burnley and Leeds United, as well as struggling Nottingham Forest, the questions continue to persist about his ability to be the difference in the biggest moments.
A Counter-Argument and Looking Ahead
So far, Gyokeres has responded to his critics with a man of the match performance. The next few weeks, which are vital in terms of league and European matches will give him the final opportunity to close the debate between the divided pundits and prove everyone right.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
