Viktor Gyokeres praises Arsenal duo Gabriel and Saliba before Atletico tie
Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres has praised centre-backs Gabriel and William Saliba as the best in the game as his side prepares for Tuesday’s crucial Champions League semi-final against Atletico Madrid.
The Gunners host the Spanish club following a tense 1-1 draw in the first leg last week.
Defensive solidity has been the cornerstone of their domestic campaign, helping goalkeeper David Raya keep 17 Premier League clean sheets.
The Swedish international believes the imposing partnership in front of Raya provides the ultimate test during daily preparations.
I don’t think you can get any better centre-backs than what we have.
Of course it’s great to train against them and go up against them. Incredible players, I’m blessed to train with them.
Hitting top form at the right time
The prolific frontman heads into the European showdown brimming with confidence after netting twice against Fulham on Saturday.
Those weekend strikes took his tally to 21 goals across all competitions this season.
An impressive 14 of those goals have come since the turn of the year, reflecting a growing comfort within his new surroundings.
You come into the group even more, you get to know the players.
When you get into your routine and everyday work, of course on the pitch as well to play together with your team-mates game after game.
Penalty perfection under pressure
With the semi-final tie delicately poised, the possibility of extra time and a penalty shootout looms large.
The Arsenal marksman brings a formidable record from 12 yards, having successfully converted his last 27 spot-kicks.
Don’t try to think too much and just put it in the back of the net.
That’s what goes through my mind.
When asked if the squad had been undertaking extra penalty practice ahead of the second leg, the striker simply smiled and offered a firm no comment.