Former Defender Questions Arsenal's Record Signing
Former England international Joleon Lescott has delivered a scathing assessment of Arsenal's decision to sign striker Viktor Gyokeres, claiming the Gunners should have pursued two Premier League alternatives instead. The criticism comes as Gyokeres continues to struggle in his debut season at the Emirates Stadium following his substantial £64 million transfer from Sporting last summer.
Underwhelming Debut Season for Swedish Striker
The 27-year-old Swedish international arrived with impressive credentials after scoring nearly a goal per game in Portugal's Primeira Liga. However, his transition to English football has proven challenging, with Gyokeres managing just 11 goals in 29 Premier League appearances this campaign. While showing some improvement since the New Year, the striker has failed to meet the high expectations that accompanied his record-breaking move to North London.
"I thought Viktor Gyokeres was brought in to start for Arsenal," Lescott told Sky Bet. "You're not spending that amount of money, having identified that position, for him not to play. Surely, he's been brought in to play in all the big games."
Lescott's Preferred Alternatives
The former Manchester City and Everton defender identified two Premier League strikers who he believes would have represented superior acquisitions for Mikel Arteta's side. Chelsea's Joao Pedro has enjoyed a productive debut season since his £60 million move, scoring 19 goals across all competitions. Meanwhile, Liverpool's Hugo Ekitike has found the net 17 times following his transfer valued just under £80 million.
"They brought in Gyokeres because they thought he was the best of the available strikers," Lescott continued. "It's easy to say now that Arsenal should have gone for Hugo Ekitike. Joao Pedro is another striker I don't know why Arsenal didn't buy."
Broader Concerns About Arsenal's Attack
Gyokeres isn't the only summer signing who has experienced difficulties adapting to life at Arsenal. Eberechi Eze endured a challenging period earlier in the season before showing improved form in recent weeks. Lescott acknowledged the midfielder's adjustment period, noting the increased pressure that comes with representing a top Premier League club.
"He's found his position at Arsenal, but he hasn't found the rhythm yet," Lescott said of Eze. "Having gone there and now needing to perform is slightly different when you've previously been given the freedom to make mistakes. He knows that when you're playing for a top team, where competition is so strong, you can't come in and not perform."
Title Race Context
The criticism emerges as Arsenal prepare for their Premier League clash against Bournemouth this weekend. The Gunners currently enjoy a nine-point advantage over defending champions Manchester City, though Pep Guardiola's side retains a game in hand. The title race could be decided when Arsenal travel to the Etihad Stadium on April 19th for what promises to be a crucial encounter.
Lescott's comments highlight ongoing questions about Arsenal's attacking options despite their strong league position. With Gyokeres occasionally dropping out of the starting lineup and the team's forward line facing scrutiny, the debate about whether Arsenal secured the right striker last summer continues to intensify as the season reaches its climax.
