'We are trying to help him' - Arteta backs Gyokeres to end Arsenal goal drought

The 28-year-old has struggled for regular opportunities in the Premier League, with Arteta preferring Germany international Kai Havertz as his leading striker. Gyokeres is yet to score in any competition this season, despite continuing to find the net for Sweden.

However, Arteta has insisted that the forward's attitude has not changed and believes he remains an important option for Arsenal.

Asked whether Gyokeres was struggling with his confidence ahead of Sunday's Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest, Arteta said: "That's a very personal question.

"I think what he transmits is an incredible will and determination and work-rate to improve and help the team, that's it.

"That's Viktor every single day, regardless of his position, whether he scores a goal or not, and that's why he's always an option to play."

Gyokeres scored 21 goals in his debut season at Arsenal in 2025/26, but has yet to reproduce that scoring form in the current campaign.

Arteta believes the striker has been unfortunate not to open his account, pointing to missed opportunities and situations where the final pass has failed to reach him.

"We are trying to help him as much as possible. He has some very good moments," the Arsenal manager said.

"He's three or four times in front of goal with no keeper, and the ball should arrive to him, and it doesn't.

"It's very small margins. Scoring or not scoring changes the narrative."

Arsenal will hope Gyokeres can turn those promising moments into goals as they look to maintain their challenge for the Premier League title.

The Gunners are second in the standings, three points behind Manchester City, ahead of their trip to the City Ground.

Arteta also provided an update on the fitness of Martin Zubimendi and Piero Hincapie, who both suffered ankle injuries during a training session following Arsenal's victory over Leeds.

Zubimendi could return against Forest after showing signs of improvement, although a final decision will be made after Saturday's training session.

"Zubi looks much better, he already looked much better today," Arteta said. "We have another session tomorrow (Saturday), and after that we will assess whether he's available to play against Forest."

Hincapie is expected to remain unavailable for another week or two, despite making good progress in his recovery.

"Piero is evolving really well," Arteta added. "Knowing his character and the way he pushes everybody, I'm sure it's not going to take long, but he will probably need another week or two."

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