Arteta, Are You Watching? Gyokeres Hits 25th International Goal As Sweden Edge Romania

Viktor Gyokeres may not be enjoying the start he would have wanted at Arsenal, but the Swedish striker continues to show exactly what he can do in an international shirt.

Gyokeres reached 25 international goals on Monday, scoring the winner as Sweden edged Romania 1-0 in Bucharest to strengthen their grip on top spot in UEFA Nations League Group B4.

The 27-year-old struck after just 12 minutes, tapping into an empty net after Sebastian Nanasi’s effort hit the post and rebounded perfectly into his path.

It was another reminder of the prolific goalscorer Arsenal believed they were signing, with Gyokeres now scoring four times during this international window and finding the net in seven consecutive Nations League matches.

His latest goal also took his Sweden tally to 25 in 50 appearances.

While his international numbers continue to rise, Gyokeres has faced scrutiny over his form since arriving at Arsenal, with the forward yet to consistently reproduce the devastating scoring touch that made him one of Europe’s most sought-after strikers.

Against Romania, however, he looked every inch the clinical No.9.

Gyokeres could have added another before half-time but failed to properly direct his header from an Eric Smith cross, while Nanasi was also denied by Romania goalkeeper Otto Hindrich.

Romania improved after the break and threatened to equalise, but Sweden goalkeeper Viktor Johansson stood firm.

The Stoke City goalkeeper denied Nicolae Stanciu from distance before producing another important save to keep out Florin Tanase’s effort from 12 yards.

Sweden held on to claim another victory and move closer to securing a top-two finish in Group B4.

They now need just one point from their remaining two matches to guarantee a top-two place after collecting 10 points over the past two weeks despite a squad hit by illness and injuries.