Jermaine Jenas Says Viktor Gyokeres ‘Stands Out’ in Arsenal’s Fluid System

Jermaine Jenas says Viktor Gyokeres stands out in Arsenal fluid attack system, but insists his unique style could be key to a title-winning season.

Former Tottenham midfielder Jermaine Jenas believes Viktor Gyokeres stands out in Arsenal system, but not in a negative way. Speaking on the Wildcards Podcast, Jenas argued that the Swedish striker brings a contrasting style that could benefit Mikel Arteta’s side.

“He stands out like a sore thumb, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing,” Jenas explained.

Arsenal signed Gyokeres from Sporting Lisbon for £64 million after a prolific spell in Portugal. He started strongly in the Premier League, scoring three goals in his first four matches. However, his form has dipped recently, failing to score in his last five outings.

Despite the drought, Gyokeres contributed to Gabriel Martinelli’s opener against Olympiacos, underlining his importance beyond just goals. Jenas noted that the striker’s direct and physical style contrasts with the technical brilliance of Martin Ødegaard, Eberechi Eze, William Saliba, and Jurrien Timber.

“They all can play,” Jenas said. “And he’s just this robust runner and handful… he makes runs and takes positions that Arsenal have not had for years.”

Not Just a Goalscorer

Jenas also praised Viktor Gyokeres’ movement and instinctive positioning, which often goes unnoticed by fans. He highlighted that Arsenal finally have a striker who can thrive on low crosses, rebounds, and tap-ins.

“They’ve not had a tap-in man for as long as I can remember,” Jenas added, stressing that Gyokeres brings a new dimension to Arsenal’s attack.

Arsenal’s recent win over Newcastle closed the gap to leaders Liverpool, and Jenas believes Gyokeres could be decisive in the title race.

“I think he’ll be the difference… this could be the year for Arsenal,” he said.

Manager Mikel Arteta agreed on those thoughts, pointing to Gyokeres’ growing chemistry with Ødegaard and insisting that building a system around the striker’s strengths will pay off in the long run.

The “Sore Thumb” Arsenal Needs?

While Viktor Gyokeres may not fit the mold of a typical Arsenal forward, his physicality and instinctive play offer a different edge to the squad. Jenas’ remarks highlight the value of diversity in playing styles—especially for a team chasing Premier League glory.

If Gyokeres continues to evolve and settle into Arteta’s system, he may prove to be the “sore thumb” that Arsenal need to finally lift the trophy.

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