Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has claimed that Arsenal star Viktor Gyokeres isn’t an elite striker.
After moving to the Emirates Stadium from Sporting CP last summer, the 27-year-old endured a difficult first half of this season but has started showcasing his best this year.
In the last 12 appearances across all competitions, he has made 10 goal contributions. He even helped his side thrash Tottenham Hotspur 4-1 by scoring a brace in the Premier League last weekend.
Overall, Gyokeres has netted 15 goals and registered two assists in 36 appearances in all competitions this season.
Despite the Swedish international’s recent upturn in form, speaking on The Good, The Bad and The Football(via Metro), Scholes has claimed that the Arsenal striker isn’t at the same level as former elite strikers such as Ruud Van Nistelrooy and Andy Cole.
However, the ex-midfielder says that Gyokeres occupies the opposition defenders and works extremely hard without possession. So, Arsenal players are likely to ‘love’ playing alongside him.
Scholes said:
“I think you’d love to play with him, he works his b******s off, he occupies them [defenders]. Has he got the quality of a [Ruud] Van Nistelrooy or an Andy Cole, these kind of people? Probably not, but you’re pleased for him yesterday.”
Pundit claims Gyokeres isn’t elite
Gyokeres joined Arsenal after displaying his goal-scoring prowess at Jose Alvalade Stadium over the last two seasons. However, Question marks were raised over whether he was good enough for the Premier League after his struggles earlier this season. Now, he has started to prove his doubters wrong.
Meanwhile, following last weekend’s North London derby win, Arsenal are currently at the top of the Premier League table with a five-point lead, having played an extra game. Manchester City are currently second with 56 points from 27 matches.
On the other hand, the Gunners have qualified for the Champions League last-16, having finished at the top of the table after winning all eight matches.
Furthermore, they have reached the Carabao Cup final and will face the Citizens next month. They are still in the FA Cup, meaning Gyokeres has an opportunity to help Arsenal win the unthinkable quadruple this season.