Rooney hails Gyokeres as key to Arsenal's historic double bid

Wayne Rooney has lauded Viktor Gyokeres as a 'major factor' in Arsenal's ambitious pursuit of a historic Premier League and Champions League double this season. The Sweden international, a £64million summer signing from Sporting Lisbon, initially faced a tough start, netting just three times in his first 11 appearances and enduring a 10-game drought without a goal from open play.

But Gyokeres has rediscovered his form, scoring five goals in his last nine matches and earning widespread praise for his all-round contribution to Arsenal's impressive winning run. With 21 goals across all competitions this season, he has emulated Arsenal legends Thierry Henry and Ian Wright by reaching the 20-goal mark in his debut campaign, even trailing Erling Haaland's tally for Manchester City by 16 goals.

Speaking about the value he brings, Rooney said, 'I’ve said this all season and I have been criticised for saying it, but I actually really like him. What he brings to that Arsenal team is that he occupies defenders. He makes them work, he makes them defend, he runs the channels.' He added that Gyokeres' movement helps teammates like Eberechi Eze and Bukayo Saka, explaining: 'If one, or both centre-backs have to go and cover him and then the full-back has to cover round, when you switch the ball quickly, it creates so much space for everyone just in behind him.'

Gyokeres' form comes at a crucial moment for Arsenal, who sit two wins away from their first league title in 22 years and have already booked a place in the Champions League final. Rooney's assessment underlines the tactical side of Arsenal's surge, with Gyokeres drawing defenders and opening space for others as the Gunners chase the double.

#Arsenal #Gyokeres #PremierLeague