Merson praises 'outstanding' Odegaard but questions Gyokeres display
Paul Merson had plenty of praise for Martin Odegaard after Arsenal's 2-0 win over Everton on Saturday, but the former Gunner was far less complimentary about Viktor Gyokeres despite the striker's role in the opening goal.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Merson did not hold back on his admiration for the Arsenal captain. “I thought Odegaard was outstanding,” he said. “He just ticks it all over, he is so comfortable, he has got a nice left foot, he is just a nice, nice player.”
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Merson also pointed to Odegaard's growing confidence as one of the key factors behind his impressive form this season, with the Norwegian directing Arsenal's play from midfield throughout the victory at the Emirates.
Gyokeres criticism despite assist
The picture was rather different when Merson turned his attention to Gyokeres. The pundit argued that the Swedish striker made life too comfortable for Everton defender James Tarkowski by playing too central a role.
“He was playing against Tarkowski, who wants that kind of player,” Merson explained, suggesting a more mobile forward who drifts into wider or deeper areas would have caused Tarkowski far greater problems.
There is some statistical weight behind that view. Gyokeres failed to register a single shot during his 68 minutes on the pitch against Everton, which will concern Arsenal supporters eager to see more direct threat from their centre forward.
However, the full picture is slightly more nuanced. Gyokeres provided the assist for Ezri Konsa's opener, meaning he has now set up a goal in consecutive appearances. He also put in considerable physical effort against a well organised and physical Everton back line, often dropping to help bring teammates into play.
A fair assessment?
Nobody at Arsenal will argue that a run of assists alone is enough to satisfy expectations of a club record signing in attack. Goals remain the priority, and that is something Gyokeres himself will be acutely aware of.
Still, there is an argument that his all round contribution, including his work rate and link play, deserves some recognition even while his finishing form is scrutinised. Merson's assessment captures one side of that debate, focusing purely on end product in front of goal rather than overall contribution to the team's attacking play.
With a demanding run of fixtures on the horizon, Arsenal will need contributions from across the front line, whether that comes in the form of goals, assists, or simply making life difficult for opposition defenders.
