Viktor Gyokeres has been called up to the Sweden squad for the upcoming international break. The striker's selection comes after a period of limited minutes at Arsenal and is seen as an opportunity to rebuild confidence.
Sweden manager Graham Potter sees no issue with including the player. "Things happen. Things go up and down, just like life does," Potter said. He also reminded of Gyokeres' qualities. "He's a Premier League winner. He scored a lot of goals as a number nine for Arsenal."
Gyokeres, 28, started on the bench in Arsenal's defeat at Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday. He played 17 minutes and created his side's best chance by playing Kai Havertz through. His total league action across the previous four matches has been minimal, with just 12 minutes against Chelsea and no minutes against Coventry City and Aston Villa. However, he has started both of Arsenal's Champions League matches and their League Cup fixtures.
Ahead of four Nations League matches in ten days, Sweden need their striker in form. The team sits third in their World Cup qualifying group with four points from three games. Their last five results show an inconsistent run of form with one win, two draws, and two defeats. The first match is at home to Romania on Friday.
Gyokeres has 37 caps and 21 goals for Sweden. His experience and goal threat are vital resources for a side that lost 3-0 to France in June. Potter is confident the international environment can help. "We're all looking forward to having Viktor with us. We're going to help him enjoy his football again," the manager said.
Sweden host Romania on 25 September, host Poland on 28 September, travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina on 2 October, and face Romania away again on 5 October.
Background and full detail: sports.yahoo.com
