Mikel Arteta says Viktor Gyokeres has raised his game after the £64 million summer signing striker scored twice in Arsenal’s commanding 3–0 win over Sunderland in Saturday’s Premier League fixture at the Emirates Stadium.
The victory moved the Gunners nine points clear at the top of the Premier League as they continue their pursuit of a first English title in 22 years, underlining the growing on-pitch return from one of the club’s most significant recent investments.
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Martin Zubimendi broke the deadlock just before half-time at the Emirates Stadium with a fine strike, before Gyokeres took centre stage in the second half. The Sweden international fired home from a Kai Havertz pass before adding his second in stoppage time, converting into an empty net after being set up by Gabriel Martinelli.
Signed from Sporting Lisbon for £64 million ($87 million), Gyokeres initially struggled to replicate the prolific form that prompted Arsenal’s heavy outlay. However, he has now emerged as Arteta’s leading scorer this season with 13 goals in all competitions, including six in his last eight appearances.
“Confidence is the magic word,” Arteta said. “When you feel confident, when you feel important, when you feel at your best, that’s when you can really take your game to the highest level.
“We are really behind him in every moment to help and support him. He is delivering, and he’s in a really good moment now.
“Obviously, when you put that shirt on, there is a lot of responsibility and huge expectation, and you need to live with that.”
Manchester City can cut Arsenal’s lead back to six points on Sunday, but only if they secure a rare away victory over Liverpool in front of supporters for the first time since 2003.
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