Former Arsenal forward Theo Walcott has offered his perspective on the Gunners' new striker, Viktor Gyokeres, suggesting that the Swedish international's contribution extends beyond simply scoring goals. Walcott, who made 397 appearances for Arsenal and scored 108 goals, believes Gyokeres possesses qualities that can greatly benefit the team, even when he's not finding the back of the net.

Gyokeres, a high-profile summer signing for Arsenal, endured a difficult Premier League debut against Manchester United. He was substituted after 60 minutes in the 1-0 victory, struggling to make an impact and appearing isolated against the United defense. Despite this, Walcott urged patience, emphasizing that Gyokeres needs time to adapt to a new league, new teammates, and the physical demands of English football.

Walcott, now a pundit, highlighted Gyokeres's work ethic and determination as key attributes. "The great thing for me about Gyokeres is that he doesn't give up and he is not shying away from anything," Walcott stated. "That is a sign of a really good forward". He noted that Gyokeres consistently gets involved and sticks to his strengths, a trait not always seen in forwards.

While acknowledging that Gyokeres could be more selfish in his pursuit of goals, Walcott believes the striker's unselfishness benefits the players around him. "He could be a bit more selfish, but those guys behind him need that freedom and for him maybe his sacrifice will be his goals," Walcott explained. This suggests that Gyokeres's willingness to create space and opportunities for others could be as valuable as his own goal-scoring record.

Walcott's assessment comes as Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta seeks to integrate Gyokeres into the team. Arsenal invested heavily in Gyokeres, viewing him as a potential solution to their long-term need for a consistent goal-scorer. While early signs suggest patience is required, Gyokeres's success is seen as crucial to Arsenal's hopes of challenging for the Premier League title.

Arsenal currently sit atop the Premier League with a three-point lead over Manchester City. They are also preparing for Champions League action against Atletico Madrid. Walcott believes that Arsenal will only improve, and he backs Gyokeres to rediscover his form after failing to score in his past seven matches.

Following Arsenal's 5-0 win over Leeds, Walcott and Jamie Redknapp analyzed Gyokeres's performance, with Walcott noting Gyokeres's brute strength and determination to get shots away. He also pointed out that Gyokeres's tendency to cut inside onto his right foot is something defenders will need to be wary of.

Walcott has previously suggested that Gyokeres could be the striker to lead Arsenal to the Premier League title. He drew comparisons to Robin van Persie, highlighting Gyokeres's selfish attitude and instinct for scoring goals. Walcott also noted the positive dynamic Gyokeres creates with other attacking players like Bukayo Saka.