Alan Shearer Praises Viktor Gyokeres’ Impact at Arsenal Despite Goal Drought

Alan Shearer praises Viktor Gyokeres’ impact at Arsenal, highlighting his strength and movement despite a slow start in front of goal.

Premier League legend Alan Shearer praises Viktor Gyokeres’ impact at Arsenal, despite the Swedish striker experiencing a goal drought. Speaking after Arsenal’s 2–0 Champions League win over Olympiacos, Shearer highlighted the forward’s movement and physical presence as key to the victory.

“He didn’t get his goal, but just his running in behind… he smashed the centre-half off with his body and great strength. I thought he looked a threat,” Shearer said on The Rest Is Football podcast.

Although Gyokeres failed to score in the match, he played a crucial role in Gabriel Martinelli’s opening goal. His link-up play and ability to unsettle defenders show why Arsenal invested £85 million to bring him from Sporting Lisbon.

Shearer, who had initially questioned Arsenal’s decision to spend big on the forward, now acknowledges the striker’s growing influence and adaptation to Premier League football.

Mikel Arteta Backs Gyokeres

Manager Mikel Arteta has consistently backed Viktor Gyokeres, praising his tactical contribution and relentless work rate.

“He was denied a few times with blocks, and then he hit the post, but overall his performance was exceptional,” Arteta explained.

The Arsenal boss sees Gyokeres as more than just a goalscorer—his movement creates space and opportunities for teammates.

Gyokeres’ Premier League debut against Manchester United was a difficult one, with only three touches inside the box. Both Shearer and Gary Lineker urged patience, stressing that adapting to Arsenal’s fluid attacking system will take time.

Lineker added that the striker’s struggles were partly due to Arsenal’s lack of rhythm in attack during that game, rather than Gyokeres’ individual performance.

What’s Next for Arsenal’s New No.9?

Arsenal face West Ham United next, and all eyes will be on Gyokeres to see if he can finally break his scoring duck. While the goals have not yet come, Shearer’s latest verdict reflects optimism about the striker’s long-term potential.

With Arteta’s backing and his physical presence already making a difference, Gyokeres looks set to become an important figure in Arsenal’s pursuit of silverware this season.

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