Victor Gyokeres heavily criticised following Arsenal collapse at Wolves
Victor Gyokeres has faced intense scrutiny from the national media after Arsenal surrendered a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Wednesday.
The Gunners became the first side in Premier League history to top the table yet surrender a two-goal advantage to a team currently sitting in the relegation zone.
Riccardo Calafiori’s stoppage-time own goal ensured the points were shared at Molineux, dealing a significant blow to the north London club’s title aspirations.
The result leaves Mikel Arteta’s side vulnerable at the summit, with Manchester City potentially moving within two points should they win their game in hand.
Struggles in the West Midlands
Gyokeres, a £63.5m summer signing, endured a difficult evening against the league’s strugglers.
The Sweden international failed to register a single shot during his 65 minutes on the pitch.
He completed just four passes and offered minimal defensive support before being replaced by Gabriel Jesus.
This performance stands in stark contrast to his prolific record at Sporting Lisbon, where he netted 97 times in 102 games.
However, with only eight goals in 24 Premier League appearances this term, questions are being raised about his ability to adapt to the English top flight.
Media reaction
The 27-year-old was the subject of harsh ratings following the full-time whistle.
Football.london awarded the forward a rating of 4/10, describing his output as a “really poor game” where he “failed to get into the match whatsoever”.
The Daily Express offered a similar assessment of the frontman.
“Desperately disappointing display from the frontman, who was unable to impose himself on the game.”
Daily Express
Critics have suggested the former Coventry City man is struggling to influence games when he is not finding the back of the net.
Title race implications
Arsenal are aiming to avoid a 22nd consecutive year without a league title.
Having finished as runners-up for the past three campaigns, the pressure on Arteta’s forward line is intensifying.
The draw at Molineux could prove to be a pivotal moment as Manchester City continue to apply pressure in the chase for the trophy.