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Arsenal have enjoyed an impressive start to the campaign, winning 8 of their first ten games, however it has not been as straightforward for recent striker Viktor Gyokeres.

After 3 scores during his initial 4 matches, the expensive acquisition has not scored for 6 consecutive games, with head coach Mikel Arteta stating he offered the Sweden striker a hug after the weekend's two-nil win against West Ham in recognition of his contributions.

Game Time & Team Factors

Gyokeres has featured for full matches across six of Arsenal's first 10 matches - beyond Arteta planned him to play, with the fitness issue to the German midfielder limiting the ability Arteta possesses to rotate the 27-year-old.

The German player represents one of the manager's most trusted squad members while there is a case to be had that Havertz might have been selected instead of the Swedish striker during big road fixtures versus the Reds - Arsenal's only loss this campaign - the Magpies plus Manchester United, which they won.

There is also the reality the striker didn't have a full summer preparation before arriving, while skipped squad training at his former club as he looked to secure a transfer toward north London.

Scoring History and Expectations

But the Swedish international is a win-now signing, that notched ninety-seven times in one hundred two games with Sporting in two seasons with the Lisbon-based team.

His lack of scoring are not a problem since the team are winning at the moment, yet he is an athlete that was signed to the club to get the squad across the finish line as they attempt to win their first title since 2020.

Coach's Perspective & Squad Adaptation

Arteta has shown recognition for Gyokeres' work rate in the opening games and heaped compliments on the striker regarding his work that often goes under the radar whenever the chance has presented to do so.

In the aftermath of Arsenal's win against Olympiacos, he described the forward's display "outstanding" while commended his "effort level".

At the time the club acquired Gyokeres, there was a belief his presence would open up opportunities to benefit the various attacking talents the team possess supporting him including the Norwegian captain, the English winger, the creative midfielder and the Brazilian forward.

Numerical Breakdown

Arsenal have altered their style this campaign to get possession through midfield more quickly while have adapted their strategy to be more vertical.

This represents in part to get the maximum from the Swedish striker, that doesn't attempt to drop into midfield to connect passes like Havertz, rather whose strength is considered to be running through the two centre-backs and into the gaps in behind.

When watching the Gunners this season, it can be seen the central players are looking for the ball that may free the striker for opportunities.

This is shown in the twenty-three chances the forward has received, however he has only managed 7 shots on target from those chances in ten games, with one being from the penalty spot.

Strategic Adjustments and Squad Support

The Gunners struggled to break down sides in a defensive setup previous campaign as they faded during the title race, so their new approach aims to damage the opposition while maintaining tempo.

Arsenal are likewise delivering crosses more regularly more regularly to create more chances.

One of the striker's three scores so far came from a spot-kick however this occurred at a time Saka had already been substituted during the 5-0 victory over United.

Arteta stated the Swedish striker is the top penalty taker in the squad during a discussion with the sports network, yet the duty fell to the English international who took the spot-kick in the victory against the Hammers when both were on the field, suggesting the English attacker could be first choice for penalties this term.

Squad Member Encouragement and Confidence

The Arsenal winger, that completed his two hundredth Premier League appearance with the Gunners during the win this weekend, has expressed confidence in the Swedish striker to succeed.

"I think Viktor's performing really, really impressively," Saka said post-game against West Ham.

"There's no doubt he will score goals. What he's providing to the squad, we as his colleagues, we are extremely grateful for what he delivers - the manner he holds the ball, the way he makes the runs, the threat he provides the team.

"He represents a big part why we're securing victories in these games. His scoring will come. We're aware, we believe that and we believe in his abilities. I don't believe there's any concerns. He's still positive, he continues to be content and he's still giving maximum effort each match."

Upcoming Prospects Regarding The Striker

It's reasonable to say it has not been the easiest of starts for the Swedish international, however that does not mean there are not indicators suggesting situations will become improved.

The striker began the campaign playing to recover regarding his fitness following a disrupted pre-season.

Havertz's injury has resulted in him being placed into circumstances earlier than possibly anticipated - this has also caused the connections with creative players supporting him that have not fully developed are being emphasized.

The striker is a willing movement maker while consistently looks for {space|g