Bukayo Saka gives verdict on Viktor Gyokeres after quiet Arsenal debut vs Man Utd

Viktor Gyokeres made his much-awaited Premier League debut at Old Trafford on Sunday but the new Arsenal striker came in for criticism after struggling against the Red Devils

Viktor Gyokeres provided something to “build on” despite drawing a blank on his full Arsenal debut. Arsenal star Bukayo Saka insists that £64m striker Gyokores has got all the hallmarks of a top quality centre forward and is already settling into his new surroundings.

Gyokores, 27, did not get a single shot on target and was substituted after making his first Arsenal start in the Premier League at Manchester United.

It left many fans wondering about his match sharpness and fitness and the Sweden international has only managed two weeks of full training after his protracted switch from Sporting Lisbon.

Gyokores represents a big gamble for the Gunners as he was prolific at Sporting but has yet to prove himself in a top league and he is now in the spotlight at Arsenal.

But Saka is convinced about his new team mate’s qualities and says Gyokores will be ready for the physical challenges of the Premier League. England winger Saka said: “I was impressed with him and he battled for us. It was tough. There was a big battle up there. I thought he did well.

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“His performance gives us something to build on and I am sure it will help him next week. He has slotted in well and so have the other guys.”

Arsenal went on a big summer spending spree as they splashed out huge money on Gyokores, bought Martin Zubimendi for £51m and Noni Madueke for £52m.

They also brought in Cristhian Mosquera, Christian Norgaard – who missed the United trip with a small knock – and reserve keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga to strengthen their squad and suddenly their bench looks very strong.

But it now remains to be seen whether they have enough X factor in their ranks to push Liverpool and Manchester City in the title race.

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The victory at Old Trafford was something of a statement and winning at United – without playing anywhere near their best – is a reason to be optimistic.

Saka was searingly honest about Arsenal’s failings and knows they will have to improve against Leeds on Saturday and their next away trip is to Liverpool.

Saka added: “It was not a great performance. We are happy with the three points, to come away from Old Trafford with a win. We were not up to our usual standards, the basics, sloppy giveaways. Our decision making was not great and that cost us and gave United a lot of momentum. We did not get punished for it but we cannot do it every game.”

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