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Wayne Rooney has identified Viktor Gyokeres amongst his standout Premier League performers this campaign, despite ongoing debate surrounding the Arsenal forward's displays.
Gyokeres, 27, arrived at the Emirates in a high-profile summer move from Sporting Lisbon and has found the net six times across 14 appearances. Nevertheless, doubts persist in certain circles about whether the Sweden international represents the solution to Arsenal's quest for the title following three successive near-misses under Mikel Arteta.
Three of Gyokeres' four top-flight strikes this term have arrived against relegation candidates Leeds and Burnley, whilst critics have also questioned aspects of his overall contribution as Arteta's men remain the team to beat in the title race.
Rooney, however, has seen enough from the Scandinavian to highlight him alongside Antoine Semenyo and Bryan Mbeumo, who have emerged as two of the Premier League's most clinical forwards this season.
When pressed to identify his three standout performers, the Manchester United and England icon told Amazon Prime: "Top three, probably [Antoine] Semenyo, I think he's been brilliant for Bournemouth, carrying on his form from last season.
"I'd also put Bryan Mbeumo in there. I think he's been really good for Manchester United, even after a difficult start to the season for the club. I think he's been really good.
"The third one, I'd probably go with Gyokeres. Arsenal have been crying out for a new number nine for a few years now and he's come in.
"His work-rate and his determination to hold up play and he's obviously scoring a few goals as well so I'd say that's my top three."
Despite Rooney's high praise for Gyokeres, not everyone shares the same sentiment. Stefan Schwarz, his fellow countryman, even suggested earlier this week that the former Coventry City player could benefit from shedding a few pounds.
"Everyone is important, but of course, he has a big presence," Schwarz commented to Hajper. "He's a strong, physical guy, and a good finisher with both feet.
"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," he continued. "I think that would help."
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