Arsenal made the perfect response to the stalemate with Wolves on Sunday, beating Tottenham by forcing their players to acknowledge the need for an honest conversation.
Arsenal got back to winning ways on Sunday after a disappointing draw with Wolves (Image: Michael Regan, Getty Images)
Arsenal’s Victor Gokeres took part in a candid team debriefing after last week’s draw with Wolves, urging his team-mates to “let it all out” while admitting: “It’s not honest, it’s hard to improve.”
Manager Declan Rice said his players had rallied after the 2-2 draw at Molineux, where the Gunners led 2-0 but conceded a goal in stoppage time. It was the first time in Premier League history that a team in the lead wasted a two-goal difference over a team in the bottom three.
It also opened the door for Manchester City to close the gap when the opportunity presented itself. Arsenal responded to the draw in style on Sunday with a 4-1 victory over Tottenham.
Gokeres scored twice, both goals showing class and supporting the need for an honest conversation if they are to get over the line this season.
“Sometimes it’s important to just verbalize what you’re feeling and let it all out in the group. Most of us have spoken. Everyone can recognize how different people are feeling in that moment, and can better understand their emotions.”
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“When you talk openly like that in a group, you get closer to unity and it’s really important to do that every once in a while. I think it’s difficult to improve if you’re not honest. We had a good conversation and I certainly enjoyed today. We’ll now prepare for the big game against Chelsea next weekend.”
Gokeres had arguably his best game in an Arsenal shirt, scoring two goals. His first of the afternoon came just after half-time, as the Gunners looked to regain the upper hand. The Swede has been criticized for many aspects of his debut season, but he proved why Arsenal spent so much money on his summer signing.
Victor Gokeres gives his best performance in an Arsenal shirt
Mikel Arteta praised his players for their internal discussions which allowed them to erase Wolves’ disappointment with such a clinical performance.
“I’m very proud and very happy for what happened, not just today, but the last three days, because we said, ‘Okay, let’s love when the players need it the most,’ but sometimes the coaches and staff need love, too.”
“They need people around them who are positive, driven, and who will stand next to them when they need them, and it has been really, really great to work with them these past few days.”
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