Viktor Gyokeres says he feels “much, much better” physically than he did at this stage last season as Arsenal prepare for the start of their title defence.
The Sweden international completed another important block of minutes during Sunday’s 3-2 defeat by Borussia Dortmund and scored Arsenal’s second goal from the penalty spot.
Gyokeres was among the players given additional time away following the World Cup, but his preparations have gathered pace since returning to Mikel Arteta’s squad.
“I feel much, much better than probably last pre-season,” Gyokeres told Arsenal’s official website.
“I’ve had more weeks now and it feels very, very good physically.”
Viktor Gyokeres fitness gives Arsenal encouragement
Gyokeres led the line against Dortmund and had opportunities to score before eventually converting from the spot during the second half.
ReadArsenal’s match report detailed how Arsenal were beaten despite goals from Ethan Nwaneri and Gyokeres.
There was also an encouraging glimpse of the striker’s relationship with Martin Odegaard.
The Arsenal captain made his first appearance of pre-season and repeatedly looked to release Gyokeres behind Dortmund’s defensive line during their time together on the pitch.
Gyokeres said Odegaard’s movement was easy to read and believes their understanding already feels natural after playing together regularly last season.
Arteta will hope that partnership sharpens further as more of his senior players return from their post-World Cup breaks.
Arsenal face Como in their final friendly at the Emirates on Wednesday before meeting Manchester City in the Community Shield on Sunday.
The result against Dortmund highlighted areas still requiring improvement, particularly defensively.
Gyokeres feeling physically stronger heading into the competitive campaign is at least one encouraging sign for Arteta.
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