Jamie Redknapp has offered an explanation for Viktor Gyokeres' difficulties at Arsenal, suggesting that the playing styles of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli are a key factor. The Sweden international joined the Gunners from Sporting CP in the summer with high expectations following his prolific goal-scoring record in Portugal.
Gyokeres has scored eight goals in 25 appearances across all competitions this season, with his most recent strike coming in Arsenal's 3-2 Carabao Cup semi-final first-leg win over Chelsea. The goal ended a drought dating back to December, but his overall form has drawn criticism from some pundits.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Redknapp highlighted the difference in service Gyokeres received at Sporting compared to Arsenal. "Predominantly, it would have been a right-footed right wing-back and a left-footed left wing-back, so he gets crosses," Redknapp said. "When he plays for Arsenal, the major problem is Bukayo Saka plays on the right, he’s left-footed, Martinelli the same, he want to cut back on his right foot."
Redknapp added that Saka's tendency to cut back rather than cross early creates frustration for Gyokeres, who thrives on deliveries into the box. The former Liverpool midfielder's comments align with Mikel Arteta's recent defence of the striker after a goalless draw with Liverpool, where the Arsenal manager noted that the ball did not arrive in dangerous positions.
Gyokeres will hope to build on his Chelsea goal when Arsenal travel to Nottingham Forest in the Premier League this weekend. He scored in the reverse fixture in September, a 3-0 win for the Gunners.
