Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres has faced criticism from club legends for being 'too nice' during a crucial missed opportunity in the Gunners' Premier League draw with Chelsea.
Missed Chance Proves Costful at Stamford Bridge
Mikel Arteta's side were held to a 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge on Monday, despite playing against ten men for a significant period. The result meant Arsenal failed to extend their lead at the top of the table.
Substitute Viktor Gyokeres, brought on to find a winner, was at the centre of a late incident that left former Arsenal stars Ian Wright and Theo Walcott frustrated. A promising ball into the Chelsea box seemed destined for the Swedish striker's head, but instead found defender Jurrien Timber, whose attempted flick sailed away from goal.
Wright and Walcott Demand More Aggression
Analysing the game for Sky Sports, Theo Walcott suggested the summer signing should have been more assertive in claiming his space. "I'd be asking questions if I was Gyokeres here," Walcott stated. "This is my space, this is why I'm on the pitch... Gyokeres is too nice sometimes I think."
Speaking on Premier League Productions, Arsenal icon Ian Wright echoed the sentiment, claiming he would be "devastated" in Gyokeres's position. "I'm going be screaming so loud anyone in front of me is gonna drop out [of the way]," Wright said. "He's got to let him know, Viktor Gyokeres has to let Jurrien Timber know 'I'm coming' because that is a massive opportunity missed."
Context of a Frustrating Night for Arsenal
The draw was a setback for Arsenal's title ambitions. The Gunners had to come from behind after Chelsea's opener, with Spaniard Mikel Merino scoring the equaliser. The Blues played a portion of the match with ten men following a red card, but Arsenal could not find a decisive second goal.
The scrutiny on Gyokeres's late cameo highlights the fine margins at the top of the Premier League, where dropped points can prove pivotal in the title race.
