Viktor Gyokeres has been subject to some scrutiny after a four-game goal drought, but Mikel Arteta has advised fans to 'let him do what he does best'.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has told Viktor Gyokeres’ critics to “leave him alone” – despite admitting the £64million striker needs to start scoring.

Mikel Arteta shared his reaction after his Arsenal side lost 2-1 at Aston Villa on Saturday, as they conceded the winning goal in the 95th minute. Villa took the lead through Matty Cash in the first half in a very open game but Arsenal fought back well and equalized through Leandro Trossard.

On Wednesday, Arsenal beat Brentford 2-0 at home, with Mikel Merino and Bukayo Saka on the scoresheet, while Villa had an eventful game against Brighton at the Amex Stadium.

Maresca was something of a surprise choice for the award. Also nominated were Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta and Aston Villa’s Unai Emery, whose eight-match winning streak got underway on November 6 with a Europa League win over Maccabi Tel Aviv.

Mikel Arteta has reiterated his belief that this season’s Premier League title race is not solely between Arsenal and Manchester City. An injury-time defeat to Aston Villa last weekend saw Arsenal’s lead at the top of the table cut to just two points after City went on to beat Sunderland 3-0 at the Etihad Stadium.

LONDON, Dec 12 - Six goals in 18 appearances was not the impact Arsenal were expecting from summer signing Viktor Gyokeres but manager Mikel Arteta is confident the Swede will come good. Read more at straitstimes.

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