“We’re going to assess” – Arteta uncertain on Gyökeres’ fitness as Arsenal face Tottenham in Hong Kong | OneFootball

Viktor Gyökeres has made an instant impact at Arsenal, breaking the club’s record for shirt sales in his first few days.

However, manager Mikel Arteta says the Swedish striker may not be ready in time for the pre-season North London derby against Tottenham in Hong Kong.

“We’re going to assess tonight how he is. If the medical staff are happy as well with his condition to participate in tomorrow’s match, it’s a possibility. We’re going to discuss that tonight,” the head coach said.

The North London derby is always a standout fixture, and with the game being played outside London for the first time in its history, Arteta is looking forward to the occasion.

“I think to bring football tradition, a rivalry, but at the same time to do it in a completely different country, I think it’s brilliant.

“I think it’s an opportunity for everybody to feel that and for us as well, because for our preparation, increases the competition level again and it brings a different challenge to the game and then we’re going to be so lucky to play in this incredible stadium with 50,000 people that I’m sure they’re going to be super loud and passionate.”

Tottenham appointed a new manager over the summer, with Thomas Frank leaving his role at Brentford to take charge at Spurs.

Speaking ahead of the match, Frank praised his opposite number and described Arsenal as one of the best teams in the world. In response, Arteta said he was looking forward to seeing him in his new role.

“That’s great to hear that from someone like Frank, especially, which I respect immensely and what to expect, I think tomorrow.

“We’re going to start to see the direction that he’s going to take with the team, implementing his vision, his philosophy and we just need to be focused on what we want to do, what we want to achieve, and I’m sure it’s going to be a great game.”