Viktor Gyokeres has been called up by Sweden, with four internationals offering him the chance to get minutes, goals and some confidence after a stop-start beginning to the season with Arsenal.
The 28-year-old started Saturday’s defeat at Brighton & Hove Albion on the bench once again and was introduced after 73 minutes.
In his brief appearance, he created Arsenal’s best chance of the game by playing Kai Havertz in over the top, only for the German to fail to beat the goalkeeper one-on-one.
Those 17 minutes were more league action than Gyokeres had managed across Arsenal’s previous four Premier League matches. He did not feature against Coventry City or Aston Villa, and played only 12 minutes against Chelsea.
He has, however, started both of Arsenal’s matches in the Champions League and League Cup, although he has looked short of confidence, to put it mildly.
That is why the international break could come at a good time for the forward, with his international manager unconcerned about his club form.
“Things happen. Things go up and down, just like life does,” Graham Potter said. “He’s a Premier League winner. He scored a lot of goals as a number nine for Arsenal.
“He was incredible in World Cup qualifying and had a great World Cup as well.
“Players at this level will always get criticism at some point. But there is no problem here. We’re all looking forward to having Viktor with us. We’re going to help him enjoy his football.
Sweden face Romania at home on Friday 25 September before hosting Poland on Monday 28 September.
They then travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina on Friday 2 October before another meeting with Romania on Monday 5 October.
For Gyokeres, it’s a chance to build some rhythm after his limited Premier League involvement.
More minutes would certainly help, and goals would be even better, with the possibility that a productive spell away with his country could help him return to Arsenal with a bit more confidence and a smile on his face.
Arsenal’s top scorer last season currently has scored 21 goals in 37 international appearances.
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