Why Saliba trusts Arsenal striker despite goal-scoring struggles
William Saliba has shown full support for Viktor Gyokeres after the striker scored in Arsenal’s 3-2 win over Chelsea.
The two sides met in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final yesterday, with Arsenal taking control of the tie.
Gyokeres, who joined Arsenal from Sporting CP in the summer, has faced a difficult spell in front of goal. The Swedish striker has found it hard to score freely since arriving, despite working hard.
Before the Chelsea game, his last goal from open play came on November 1. That long wait had started to raise questions around his confidence and sharpness.
However, he delivered an important moment against Chelsea in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final. Gyokeres scored once and also set up a goal during the 3-2 victory at Stamford Bridge.
Saliba backs striker to regain confidence
Speaking after the match, Saliba made it clear he had no concerns about Gyokeres’ form. The French defender insisted that the goals would come again for the Arsenal forward.
“I am sure that he will keep scoring,” Saliba said. “It is just sometimes when you are a No9, you have some periods when you are not scoring. But I am not worried about him, I think he will score. He is strong, he is fast.”
Saliba explained that such dry spells are normal for strikers at this level. He emphasised that Gyokeres still contributes significantly to the team, even without goals.
Saliba also spoke from personal experience, having faced Gyokeres in the past. He admitted that facing the Swede last season was a real test.
He added: “He can score when he has the opportunity to score Obviously, I know his quality because I played against him last season, and it was so tough to play against him.”
Chelsea display shows positive signs
Saliba went on to highlight Gyokeres’ recent performances, beyond just the Chelsea game.
He felt the striker had been playing well, despite the lack of goals.
He further said: “He played well [against Chelsea]. He played well in the last games as well, it’s just that he was missing the goals.”
The defender’s comments suggest that confidence within the squad remains high. There is a shared belief that Gyokeres is close to turning his form around.
Arsenal will now turn their focus to the Premier League. Their next match will see them travel to the City Ground to face Nottingham Forest on Saturday evening.
Mikel Arteta’s side will be aiming to protect their position at the top of the table. Gyokeres will hope to build on his Chelsea performance and add more goals soon.
The post Why Saliba trusts Arsenal striker despite goal-scoring struggles first appeared on ArsenalNews.co.uk.