David O’Leary thinks one Arsenal player has been so much better in recent weeks

Add as preferred source on Google

Club legend David O’Leary has noticed a stark improvement in one particular Arsenal player in recent weeks.

O’Leary needs little introduction to Arsenal fans. The Irishman made 722 appearances for the club across 18 years, captained the side and remains one of the most decorated defenders in the club’s history.

Speaking on The Overlap’s Stick to Football, O’Leary was asked for his thoughts on Mikel Arteta’s current Arsenal side.

While giving his assessment, he had particular praise for the progress Viktor Gyokeres has made in recent games.

👀 Do we all owe Viktor Gyokeres an apology after his performances against Fulham and Atletico?

👏 Three goals in three games and three top performances!

Comment

Like or Comment

Have your say Sign-in now for free

O’Leary acknowledged the limitations in the Swede’s game while making clear that something has visibly clicked in recent weeks.

“Gyokeres looked a more effective player,” O’Leary said. “I’ve seen him play for Coventry and I came away thinking, first of all, the lad is a trier. He’ll work hard for you.

“Is he the most technical? No. But he has a way, an effective way. And the last few games they’ve played to that and he looks a lot better player for it.”

Viktor Gyokeres is now Arsenal’s undisputed first choice to lead the line

A lot of Arsenal fans can relate to O’Leary’s thoughts, particularly those who have had reservations on Gyokeres since his £55 million switch from Sporting CP.

For much of the campaign, questions have lingered over whether Gyokeres was the right fit for Arteta’s system, and whether Kai Havertz is still Arsenal’s best centre forward when fit.

But that has flipped now — for some since the turn of the month, for others perhaps even earlier — having been pivotal to the team’s sharp turnaround in form.

Arteta and the supporting cast have finally figured out how to get the best out of this flawed but extremely effective footballer.

And it’s just when Arsenal needed it most.

With a Champions League final against PSG looming, the Gunners are three wins away from an historic Premier League and European double.

The brace and assist against Fulham, the heroic display against Atletico Madrid; Arsenal fans are increasingly convinced this is the man to lead the line in Budapest.