Gyokeres backed to score 40 goals this season by ambitious Arsenal teammate

Gabriel Martinelli was on target for Arsenal in their 2-0 Champions League win over Olympiacos and he's tipping Viktor Gyokeres to get back amongst the goals very soon following an all-action display against the Greeks

Gabriel Martinelli claims Viktor Gyokeres is capable of plundering up to 40 goals for Arsenal this season - because of the wizardry of captain Martin Odegaard. The Norwegian playmaker was back to his magical, creative best on Wednesday night at the Emirates as he claimed the man of the match award in the 2-0 victory over Greek champions Olympiacos.

Martinelli, who slotted a 12th-minute opener, insists it's only a matter of time before Gyokeres' numbers explode - even if the Swede has now gone five matches without finding the target.

The Brazilian winger said: "It’s really good to play with Martin there because he’s always trying to find you, when we make the movement. And for Victor as well, his qualities as well, as he likes to go in behind and attack the opposition’s box.

"I think him playing with Martin as well is going to be good for him. We are going to try to give him the ball as much as possible to make him score, I don't know, 30 or 40 goals a season.

"We are really happy with him, we trust him, we know his qualities and he’s one of the top strikers in the world right now. We trust him and we are trying to give him the confidence to score and to do his best on the pitch to help us."

Martinelli was beginning to harvest an unwanted reputation as Arsenal's super sub having recently netted from the bench against Athletic Club and Manchester City, respectively.

But after backing those decisive cameos up with a goal against the Greeks, Martinelli has now made it clear to Mikel Arteta that he will not settle for a bit-part role.

He continued: "I mean, I want to play and I want to start every single game. As I said, I’m going to help the team as much as possible. The manager is the one that takes the decision and we have to respect him. When I have the opportunity, I always try to give my best."

Martinelli added after scoring in consecutive Champions League victories: "It’s a dream for me. I always try to give my best to help the team and to live moments like that, and, as you said, it’s fantastic. I’m really happy with the goals and the victories."

While the summer arrivals of Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze could help propel the Gunners to new heights - competition for places is now stiffer than ever.

The 24-year-old is relishing the battle upon his hands and claims it's no different to what he has already experienced at international level, continuing: "I feel good. It’s the same in the national team for me.

"I’m not going to complain to have Vini Junior, Rodrygo and Raphinha playing with me! I’m really happy to have them there and happy to have the players that we have here as well."