(Photo by Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar / Justin Setterfield via Getty Images)
Viktor Gyokeres’ overall play as Arsenal’s focal point, both on and off the ball, has seen a marked improvement in recent weeks, and Premier League legend Alan Shearer believes the transformation is down to a specific tactical tweak by Mikel Arteta’s side.
The Swedish powerhouse has not been able to repeat the his outrageous goalscoring numbers from last season and often struggled with the physicality as well, but he has improved as the season went.
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Alan Shearer on how Arsenal have improved Viktor Gyokeres
According to Shearer, the secret behind this surge in form lies in the service provided by the Arsenal midfield.
Speaking as a pundit on Amazon Prime during Arsenal’s vital victory in the Champions League semi-final, Shearer noted that the Gunners have finally learned how to maximize their striker’s unique skillset.
Shearer elaborated that early service prevents opposition defenders from doubling up on the Swede, allowing him to use his explosive pace and strength in one-on-one situations.
By eliminating the extra touches in the buildup, Arsenal have turned Gyokeres from a target man into a devastating transitional weapon.
He said (via BBC Sport): “One of the things I think Arsenal have improved on is Gyokeres. They need to play the ball quick and early to him, and it’s something they’ve done more of in the last few weeks.”
Gyokeres has been praised by Wayne Rooney
It isn’t just Shearer who has been impressed by the forward’s development. Former Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney also recently praised him for becoming the focal point that Arsenal missed.
Following his best ever performance in an Arsenal shirt against Fulham, Rooney said the following about Gyokeres:
“I’ve liked Gyokeres all season. I think he does so well for the…
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