‘He’s useless’ - Ex-World Cup winner concerned for Gyokeres after Arsenal debut

Frank Leboeuf, the 1998 World Cup winner with France, has shared his thoughts on Viktor Gyokeres’s Premier League debut for Arsenal.

The marquee signing and potential Golden Boot contender was recruited by Mikel Arteta in the summer, with supporters hoping that the Swede’s goalscoring prowess in front of goal lifts the consecutive three-time runners-up, who have been pursuing a top-flight title since going unbeaten in the 2003-04 season. 

Although Gyokeres joined Arsenal’s pre-season late, the former Sporting striker scored in the Gunners’ 3-0 victory over Athletic Club at the Emirates Stadium, signalling his intention to make an impact in North London. 

However, the Swede was ineffectual in Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Manchester United, but it was not for the want of trying. 

The 27-year-old made forward runs behind the United defence, but the option to send him through on goal was often ignored as expected teething problems continue. 

Gyokeres had just 22 touches against the Red Devils, with only three in the United box, completed four passes and won three of 13 duels in total (two from seven ground duels and one from six aerial battles) before being substituted on the hour for Kai Havertz.

Former centre-back Leboeuf has criticised Arsenal’s recruitment, questioning why the ball was not passed when the Swede made positive, attacking runs. 

“Why do you recruit a player like Gyokeres when you know that the rest of the team won’t play that way?”Leboeuf asked on ESPN. “You have the player to cross the ball as quick as possible. 

“If you make it slow, that guy is useless. The rest of the team does not understand him.

“He’s useless. I thought Hojlund signed for Arsenal and played against his former teammates.”

The Gunners next face Leeds United at the Emirates on August 23 before a showdown with Liverpool at Anfield on August 31.