Merino backing Viktor to be prolific for Gunners

MIKEL MERINO insists that Viktor Gyokeres has already adapted back into English football - and his “unbelievable” work-rate proves it.

- BY JOHN CROSS

Gunners striker Gyokeres has managed just three goals since his £64m arrival in the summer.

He has played 533 minutes since his last goal for Arsenal.

The pressure is on the ex-Coventry man to deliver, starting with the Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid tonight.

But Merino (inset, above) says it is unfair to judge him only on goals.

Arsenal midfielder Merino said:

"I don’t think it is taking a lot for him to adapt. He is really good. He is giving us many, many options on and off the ball.

"The work-rate he puts in during every single game, you have to see the data, it is unbelievable how much he helps the team on and off the ball.