Arsenal given encouraging Viktor Gyokeres verdict after what he did for Sweden

Viktor Gyokeres starred for Sweden yesterday as the Arsenal striker went head-to-head with his former transfer rival Benjamin Sesko.

Gyokeres played the full 90 minutes at the Stadion Stozice in Slovenia. The 27-year-old assisted Brighton’s Yasin Ayari to give Sweden a 2-1 lead, but Swansea’s Zan Vipotnik struck in stoppage time to earn the hosts a late draw.

It was the second time this season that Arsenal’s No.14 has come up against Sesko, after their meeting in the Gunners’ opening Premier League clash with Manchester United.

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Both players had been central to Arsenal’s striker search over the summer. At one stage, Mikel Arteta appeared close to landing Sesko, but opted for Gyokeres instead.

Swedish outlet Fotbollskanalen praised Gyokeres’ performance against Slovenia, writing: "Very strong when the cross came and held it away and passed the ball to Ayari who netted.

"Strong, unyielding and loyal, and did a great job. Often had two opponents on him."

Gyokeres and Sesko have experienced contrasting starts to life in England. The Sweden international has been handed the starting striker role at Arsenal and has scored two goals in three Premier League appearances, both coming in the 5-0 win over Leeds United.

Sesko, meanwhile, is still waiting for his first league start under Ruben Amorim. The 22-year-old has only played 80 minutes in the Premier League, with his only 90 minutes to date ending in a shock Carabao Cup defeat to Grimsby.

Sesko recently admitted he is still adjusting to the demands of English football. He said: "English football is the highest level in the world of football. The level of the matches is certainly much higher [than German football].

"The players & teammates are also at a higher level. I wanted to move to England and, luckily, my wish came true."

Gyokeres is expected to feature again for Sweden on Monday in their trip to Kosovo. Arsenal return from the international break with a home clash against Nottingham Forest.