All eyes were on Viktor Gyokeres as he made his Arsenal debut against Manchester United in the Premier League.
Gyokeres was given a frosty reception by the home crowd after the striker rejected a reported move from Manchester United in the summer in favour of the Gunners.
Matthijs de Ligt defended well against the Swede, however, the striker did show that he was more than capable of standing up to the physical challenge of the Premier League.
Jamie Carragher thinks Mikel Arteta may drop Gyokeres for the trip to Anfield in a couple of weeks but former Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner has defended the 27-year-old forward amid criticism of his debut.
Nicklas Bendtner says Viktor Gyokeres lacked service from Arsenal
Speaking to Stadium Astro, Danish international Bendtner has claimed that Gyokeres lacked service during Arsenal’s victory over Manchester United.
Rio Ferdinand claims Gyokeres was not ‘fit enough’ to make an impact in the match but Bendtner believes it is down to the striker’s teammates to provide him with chances in front of goal.
Bendtner stated: “To be honest. Gyokeres didn’t perform today. He’s also in a new league, the first game of the season.
“Arsenal didn’t perform, he showed in bits and parts of the game what he’s capable of in terms of keeping the ball and having presence, but it’s hard to judge a guy who doesn’t get service and doesn’t have a shot on target.
Ray Parlour saw positive signs in Gyokeres in how he worked hard and certainly occupied the United defence.
The Swede will be desperate for more action in front of goal however, as the Gunners host Leeds United in the next Premier League fixture.
Arsenal didn’t capitalise on chances to exploit Manchester United on transitions
After a shaky start to the game, Arsenal eventually showed their solidity in defence and frustrated United in their efforts to equalise.
It left space on the counter attack and you cannot help but get the feeling that this is an area Arsenal have to improve in to help Gyokeres fire this season.
Martin Odegaard struggled in transitions and there are calls for Ethan Nwaneri to play in certain games for his ability to carry the ball through midfield and strike a longer pass.
There were several opportunities at Old Trafford to slip Gyokeres in behind the defence but the pass was not seen or under hit.
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