Arsenal latest: Viktor Gyokeres urged to lose weight as Gunners forward's ‘relapse’ revealed

We bring you the latest stories surrounding Arsenal as Mikel Arteta's side turn their attention to Tottenham in the North London Derby

Following the international break, Arsenal's attention has now turned to the first North London Derby of the season.

The Gunners were in exceptional form prior to the break, going eight games without conceding a goal before their unfortunate 2-2 draw at Sunderland. Mikel Arteta will be hoping that the two-week interval hasn't disrupted their momentum, especially after his team managed to build a four-point lead at the top of the Premier League table.

Tottenham are expected to pose a challenge when they visit the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, despite their struggles in N5 in recent years. But the main hurdle for Arsenal will be managing their extensive injury list, which has grown even longer following the recent internationals.

Now, as we approach the highly anticipated derby, we bring you two of the biggest news stories surrounding the Gunners.

Gyokeres ‘too heavy’

Stefan Schwarz has advised Viktor Gyokeres to lose weight in order to perform better in the Premier League. Despite Gyokeres' six goals in 14 appearances for the Gunners since his £64million summer transfer, his performances have occasionally lacked the pace and flair typically associated with a top Arsenal striker.

Gyokeres would have been disappointed to suffer a hamstring injury at Burnley on November 1, especially as it was arguably his finest display in an Arsenal jersey, and he's a doubt for the Spurs match this weekend. However, former Arsenal midfielder and fellow countryman Schwarz is of the opinion that Gyokeres can still improve by becoming faster and lighter.

“I believe with Viktor Gyokeres, he’s not fully fit yet," he explained. “As well with the new system, new manager, and new teammates, it takes time to develop the understanding. It’s not just the physical part of it, it’s the mental part as well.

“Mental tiredness may be from adapting to a new club, new expectations, and higher expectations from supporters around the whole world. But it’s a good partnership (Gyokeres and Arsenal). And hopefully it will benefit Sweden for sure and Graham Potter.”

He bluntly added: “Sometimes the dog who barks loudest is not always the strongest. I think it’s just the players in the Premier League. They are more powerful players, faster players.

“The strikers will always be counted on for the goals that they are scoring. Hopefully, he’ll start to create and score goals, have a good run, get that real boost, and get a bit lighter because he’s a heavy player. I think that would help.”

Havertz injury blow

Kai Havertz has been hugely unlucky to miss the opening three months of the campaign with a knee problem. The German, who has not played since the opening weekend of the campaign, will also be absent against Tottenham at the Emirates.

The 26-year-old is expected to make his comeback towards the end of the year, according to Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann. Nagelsmann also revealed that Havertz, who underwent a minor surgical procedure previously, experienced a ‘minor relapse’ at some stage.

Following Germany's 6-0 victory over Slovakia that concluded their World Cup qualifying campaign, the manager said: “Kai had a small relapse on his injury, but overall, he’s doing well. If all goes well, he can play again towards the end of the year.”