Viktor Gyokeres told of two Arsenal players to follow as insider wades in on Man Utd debut

Arsenal legend Ray Parlour believes Viktor Gyokeres can follow in the footsteps of Dennis Bergkamp and Thierry Henry despite criticism over his debut performance on Sunday. The Swedish striker started the 1-0 win at Manchester United, but was replaced 60 minutes in after an ineffective display.

The 27-year-old signed for the Gunners this summer after a lengthy transfer saga, where he refused to train with Sporting CP while he negotiated a move. The lack of a full pre-season appeared to hamper him at Old Trafford, and he was closely marked by United centre-back Matthijs de Ligt. However, Parlour isn't concerned and reminded fans of how two of the club's all-time greats also started quietly in North London.

Speaking to NetBet Online Casino, he said: "Remember it took Bergkamp and Henry quite a few games to score their first goal and impress, so for an opening debut, I am confident he will do well for Arsenal."

Emulating players of that calibre will be far from straightforward. Henry famously scored 226 times for the club in just 370 games, and his partnership with Bergkamp is lauded as one of the best ever in the Premier League.

However, despite the apparent lack of goal threat, Parlour also saw enough to be enthused by Gyokores' display. He also argued that the former Brighton and Coventry City man will help Mikel Arteta to mix up his tactics as he bids to finally end their wait for a Premier League title.

"It was a big call to start Gyokeres from the start, and he did ok," he added. "You can see his physical strength will cause defenders a lot of problems, and he ran well down the flanks when balls were put there.

"His link-up play was good, and he will gain more confidence as he plays more games. It's so important for Arsenal to add a different dimension to their game, and you can see how he will give them this."

Parlour, who played 466 games for Arsenal and won three Premier League titles, also argued that the addition of Gyokeres, Martin Zubimendi, and Noni Madueke will strengthen the squad after lacking 'depth' last season. The Gunners host Leeds on Saturday before a trip to Anfield eight days later.