Paul Merson has claimed that Viktor Gyokeres' standout performance for Arsenal reminded him of Manchester City striker Erling Haaland. The Swedish forward netted twice in the Gunners' 3-0 victory over Fulham at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday evening, taking his tally to 21 goals in his debut season in North London.
Merson's comparison to Haaland
Speaking on Sky Sports, Merson said: "That was the best I've seen him play. It reminded me of Haaland. The players trust him a lot more, they were playing it in to him and he felt more confident." Gyokeres' recent form has come at a crucial time for Arsenal, with Kai Havertz currently sidelined through injury.
Redknapp's theory on Gyokeres' improvement
Jamie Redknapp suggested that Havertz's absence might have helped Gyokeres perform at his true potential. He said: "Do you think it's a coincidence that he had his best game when Havertz wasn't on the bench? Maybe he's not thinking 'if I don't do well, I'm coming off.' Strikers are a selfish breed; they don't want that pressure of someone waiting in the wings."
Merson agreed, adding: "Centre-forwards get the hump when they come off with 15 or 20 minutes to go because that's when the game opens up. Earlier in the season, I thought Gyokeres needed to be the sub and come on for 20 minutes. Now there's not as much pressure, and he's not looking over his shoulder every time a number goes up."
What's next for Gyokeres and Arsenal
Gyokeres will aim to continue his fine form as Arsenal face Atletico Madrid in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final next week, followed by a Premier League trip to struggling West Ham. Merson concluded: "That's what they bought him for – performances like that week in, week out. If they're there for the next four games and win the league and reach the Champions League final, they've got their money back."
