The future of Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres has dominated headlines in recent weeks, with speculation linking him with a move away from the Emirates Stadium.
The Sweden international was the star of the show for the Gunners against Slavia Prague in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, and manager Mikel Arteta was asked about him after the game.
The Spaniard was full of praise for the 28-year-old, who has struggled for game time at the club this season.
'I am happy with Gyokeres': Arteta hails striker after Slavia showing
Gyokeres featured from the start for Arteta's side in their meeting with Czech outfit Slavia Prague, and the Swede delivered a fine showing in the game.
The former Sporting CP striker showed off his impressive hold-up ability to hold on to possession before setting up Noni Madueke to open the scoring for the Gunners.
Later in the first half, he added his name to the scoresheet with a composed finish, netting his second goal of the season.
In his post-match press conference, Arteta was asked to share his thoughts on the striker, and he revealed that he is very happy with the Swede.
“I am happy with Gyokeres, he was really good. Not only the assist and the goal, but he was really connected to the team,” he said.
By emphasising how well Gyokeres linked up with the rest of the squad, the manager signalled that the striker remains an integral part of Arsenal's tactical depth as the grueling winter fixture schedule approaches.
His public backing goes a long way in quelling rumours linking the striker with a move elsewhere.
Gyokeres answers critics on the European stage
Gyokeres had scored just once for Arsenal this season, against League Two outfit Fleetwood Town, in the Carabao Cup this season.
The striker has fallen behind Kai Havertz in the pecking order in Arteta's squad, leading to limited minutes for him in the Premier League this season.
He started in Czechia on Wednesday, and was undeniably the star of the show for the Gunners in midweek.
From the opening whistle, his physical presence and intelligent movement caused constant headaches for the Slavia Prague backline.
Despite finding regular starting minutes difficult to come by during the domestic campaign, Gyokeres proved his immense value when called upon on the continental stage.
Rather than letting exit rumors disrupt his focus, the striker put on a complete center-forward masterclass that reminded supporters and pundits alike of his physical and technical ceiling.
He was linked with a move away from the club in the summer, but appears to retain the backing of the manager to remain an important member of the squad at the Emirates.
His suitors will continue to monitor his situation ahead of the January transfer window, as the striker will hope to get more minutes in Arteta's team.
