Viktor Gyokeres just delivered a performance that had the Emirates roaring—but Michael Owen? He's still not impressed.
The Swedish striker didn't find the net in Wednesday's Champions League semifinal against Atletico Madrid. But he left Diego Simeone's center-backs battered and bruised, leading Arsenal's line with sheer ferocity.
Bukayo Saka's goal ultimately punched the Gunners' ticket to the final. Yet anyone watching knew who the real battering ram was—Gyokeres was a monster up front.
Mikel Arteta could barely contain his admiration. "He was immense," the manager said. "The crowd reaction every time he had the ball, his work rate, what he's giving the team—just incredible."
Since his summer move from Sporting Lisbon, Gyokeres has racked up over 20 goals in all competitions. Solid numbers. But Owen isn't sold on him as Arsenal's long-term answer.
"I'd say OK," Owen told talkSPORT. "He's certainly not been a disappointment, but he hasn't set the place on fire. About 14 Premier League goals, into the 20s overall—solid for somebody like that."
The former striker's real concern? Arsenal are still hunting for that world-class predator. "They've got Havertz, who does a good job. They've got Gyokeres, they've got Jesus. But none of them are Haaland, Mbappe, or Kane—the type everyone's searching for."
"That kind of striker is incredibly hard to find," Owen added. "Yet Arsenal are doing brilliantly well with a player who doesn't score 30-odd goals a season."
