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Bukayo Saka just got 60 minutes of competitive action alongside new Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres. He sides with the new center forward.
Sunday evening's match between Man United vs Arsenal wasn't for the faint-hearted. It was a match where Arsenal scored early, then were forced to sit deep and defend their own territory.
Key performances from Martin Odegaard and Martin Zubimendi made it a slightly easier watch but ultimately, it was the defense and goalkeeper with the most to do at Old Trafford.
Up top, Viktor Gyokeres had a woeful debut, but it was through no fault of his own. Arsenal could hardly attack as they were forced to sit back and defend their lead.
Rival fans are jumping to conclusions about Gyokeres, but Saka isn't. He's uttered five words that makes his support for the new man crystal clear.
Bukayo Saka shows immense support for Viktor Gyokeres
In his own words, Saka said: "I was impressed with him and he battled for us. It was tough. There was a big battle up there. I thought he did well. His performance gives us something to build on, and I am sure it will help him next week. He has slotted in well."
Saka sees a side to Gyokeres that fans will never see: how he's settled in behind closed doors. He didn't have a bad word to say about his new teammate and if anything, he praised the way "he has slotted in well."
That's pretty evident to see. Even despite the starved performance, Gyokeres never looked dejected. He never gave up and if anything, he was actively trying to make things happen, even with limited opportunities.
Fans naturally expect to see plenty of action in an anticipated signing's debut. However, this isn't always the case, and it's especially hard when playing a reserved match against Man United at Old Trafford of all places.
Look, we dubbed Viktor Gyokeres as Arsenal's worst player of the Premier League opening weekend. And he was, we can't run from the facts. However, context is important, and recognizing that it wasn't Gyokeres' fault he had a bad game is even more important.
The signs were bright, and in a game where Arsenal aren't pinned back, he will shine. Saka knows it, and we should trust the starboy.
Next, Arsenal will face newly promoted Leeds United. They also won 1-0 yesterday, so they'll be up for the trip to the Emirates Stadium.