Mikel Arteta says he ‘loved’ what Arsenal star did against Newcastle | OneFootball

Mikel Arteta says he “loved” how Viktor Gyokeres coped with Newcastle’s physicality in Arsenal’s 2-1 win on Sunday.

Gabriel scored a late winner after Mikel Merino’s equaliser to secure all three points for the Gunners at St James’ Park.

But Arteta also highlighted the performance of Swedish striker Gyokeres and praised him for how he led the line.

“I loved it,” Arteta said when asked about how he coped with the physicality.

“I absolutely loved how he took it on board.

“Not a single moment where he is showing frustration. I told him you’re going to get some decisions and some others not. You’re going to have two or three players around you in many moments when the ball is in the air and a lot is going to happen.

“But I loved his reaction. I loved the way he handled the situation emotionally and he was involved in a lot of dangerous moments that he created. He was very much involved in them.

“It’s a pity that he didn’t score a goal at the end because in my opinion he fully deserved it.”

Arteta also lauded the striker for the way he has coped with the pressure of being Arsenal’s main man up top, especially following a long-term injury to Kai Havertz.

“In a really natural and organic way, I would say,” Arteta said when asked how he is handling it.

“He’s a really confident boy. His work ethic is incredible and the demands that he puts on himself every single day.

“It’s a joy to work with him. He gives so much to the team and the ceiling is very, very far for what he can still give to the team. Very happy with him.”