Michael Owen has urged Mikel Arteta to recall Viktor Gyokeres to Arsenal's starting lineup for the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain, praising the striker's recent form as 'outstanding'.
Arsenal's Double Bid
Following their Premier League triumph last weekend, Arsenal aim to secure a historic double on Saturday when they face PSG in their first Champions League final in 20 years. The Gunners were eliminated by the Parisian side in last year's semi-finals, and Luis Enrique's team are slight favourites to defend the crown they won convincingly against Inter in Munich last season. However, Arsenal remain unbeaten in this season's competition and impressed in knocking out Atletico Madrid in the semi-finals.
Gyokeres' Impact
Gyokeres delivered two strong performances against Atletico, scoring in the first leg in Madrid and earning man-of-the-match honors in the return leg at the Emirates. The 27-year-old was dropped to the bench for Arsenal's final two league matches against Burnley and Crystal Palace, but Owen insists Arteta must reinstate the Swede for Saturday's final.
'I think Gyokeres has to start in the Champions League final, 100 per cent yes,' Owen told Metro. 'He has been in outstanding form, scoring goals, contributing to goals and leading the line really well in recent weeks, and he is now a real threat up front for Arsenal. In the Champions League semi-finals, he played well, and I think he can cause PSG problems as defensively they aren't as strong.'
Arsenal's Summer Plans
Regardless of Saturday's result, securing a first league title in 22 years ensures this season will be remembered in Arsenal's history. Owen believes the club does not need to be aggressive in the transfer market this summer as they prepare to defend their league crown. Speaking via Lucky Rebel World Cup Odds, he added: 'Arsenal have a very good squad, which has taken them to the title and on the brink of Champions League success, so they can keep their powder dry and if a special player becomes available they can go and get them. But they already have a top goalkeeper, outstanding defence, and the midfield is solid. Maybe the only area would be if a striker became available who can complement what they have already, but I would say Arsenal are in a very good position and have the upper hand now as Premier League champions.'
