Viktor Gyokeres set for major Arsenal chance as Kai Havertz injury creates Arteta headache

Viktor Gyokeres could be handed his first Premier League start of the season when Arsenal return from the international break against Leeds United.

Kai Havertz’s fitness is uncertain after the German suffered a muscle strain during the Nations League draw with the Netherlands, opening the door for Gyokeres to lead Mikel Arteta’s attack on October 10.

And Leeds are opponents the Swedish striker knows particularly well.

Gyokeres scored three goals across Arsenal’s two Premier League meetings with Leeds last season.

He struck twice during a 5-0 victory at the Emirates before scoring again as Arsenal won 4-0 at Elland Road in January.

After the first meeting, Arteta described the striker’s ability to attack certain situations as a “superpower”.

“It’s clear where Viktor is really dangerous,” Arteta said. “Let’s put him as much as possible in those kinds of scenarios because something good will happen.”

Leeds’ aggressive and physical approach could again suit Gyokeres, particularly if Arsenal can create space for him to attack behind their defensive line.

Gyokeres has found Premier League starts difficult to come by this season, but he has made clear that he wants more opportunities.

“Of course, you expect more playing time,” the striker said while on international duty.

“But we have an extremely good squad with a lot of good players and have been doing well here at the start.”

His opportunity could now arrive because of Havertz’s injury.

The German was forced off after a high challenge from Quinten Timber during Germany’s clash with the Netherlands.

What initially appeared to be an impact injury was later described by the German Football Association as a “muscle strain”.

Havertz subsequently withdrew from the Germany squad and returned to Arsenal for further assessment.

His availability against Leeds therefore remains uncertain, leaving Arteta with an important decision over his attack.

For Gyokeres, it could be exactly the opportunity he has been waiting for.

Arsenal’s medical staff will assess Havertz before determining whether he can feature against Leeds on October 10.

If the German is unavailable, Gyokeres appears to have a major opportunity to stake his claim.

The striker has struggled to secure regular starts despite his £64m move from Sporting, and Arsenal’s depth means competition will remain fierce even when Havertz is absent.

But Leeds could be an ideal opponent for Gyokeres to make his case.

His three goals against Farke’s side last season provide evidence that he can hurt their aggressive defensive approach, while his desire for more minutes gives him additional motivation.

A strong performance at the Emirates could give Arteta another difficult selection decision once Havertz returns.