Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres insists that he remains “extremely happy” at the Premier League champions, but he is keen on getting more game time.

The Swedish international was linked with a move to Atletico Madrid during the summer transfer window, as part of a swap deal for Julian Alvarez, but Gyokeres says he was never close to leaving:

“Of course, there was a lot of speculation. But I had a full pre-season, and it felt good. I was fully focused on Arsenal. For me, staying was a given. I’m extremely happy at the club. It’s clear that I want to play football as much as possible. Hopefully that will come, too.”

Gyokeres has not started in the Premier League this season, with manager Mikel Arteta favouring Kai Havertz up front, and the 28-year-old has made it clear that he wants to get back into the team:

“You always want to be on the field as a football player. Of course you expect more playing time, but we have an extremely good squad with a lot of good players and have been doing well here at the start.”

The Arsenal star has to do more

The main criticism of Gyokeres is his inability to link up play. He can run the channels, but it is rare to see him involved in the build-up to attacks.

It is in stark contrast to Havertz, who is very comfortable coming deep for the ball or being used as a target man if needed.

Injuries may present an opportunity for Gyokeres

Havertz sustained a hamstring injury whilst playing for Germany last week, and he is a doubt to face Leeds in Arsenal’s first game after the international break.

That means Gyokeres could well be named in the starting eleven for a Premier League match. His only starts so far this campaign have come in the Champions League and Carabao Cup.