Gyokeres breaks scoring slump to secure Arsenal's festive lead

Viktor Gyokeres snapped his goalless streak with a penalty to propel Arsenal back to the summit of the Premier League following a gritty 1-0 victory over Everton.

The Gunners had lost their position at the top to Manchester City earlier that Saturday, yet they reclaimed a two-point buffer despite a lacklustre showing.

Mikel Artetas side required a late goal to overcome rock-bottom Wolves in their previous outing and found it tough to dominate against a weakened Everton team.

Nevertheless, that single strike was sufficient to place Arsenal at the top over Christmas for the third time in four seasons.

On the prior two instances, they could not hold on for the championship, getting overhauled by City.

Erling Haaland continued to shine for City in their 3-0 triumph against West Ham, pushing his seasonal haul to an impressive 38 goals across club and international duties.

The gap in quality between the two sides leading forwards could ultimately deny Arsenal their first league crown in 22 years.

However, their own Nordic forward at last scored since November 1.

Gyokeres saw a penalty claim dismissed moments before netting, after Jake OBrien shoved him.

From the ensuing corner, OBrien foolishly lifted his arms to block Declan Rices cross, earning a penalty.

Arsenals usual spot-kick specialist Bukayo Saka stepped back to let Gyokeres blast the ball beyond Jordan Pickford.

The table toppers had dropped points in their last three away league fixtures, enabling City to narrow the gap, but they met the Toffees during an opportune moment.

Evertons challenging situation worsened without three vital squad members.

Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall sat out due to injury, while Senegalese pair Iliman Ndiaye and Idrissa Gana Gueye left for the Africa Cup of Nations.

Evertons shortage of attacking prowess became evident early, yet Arsenal barely clung to the win after neglecting to seal the result.

Gyokeres displayed the reduced pace that has hindered his adaptation from prolific outings at Sporting Lisbon to the Premier Leagues rigours.

He chased William Salibas pass but blazed over while hounded by James Tarkowski.

Saka ought to have extended the lead when his effort was blocked on the line by Tarkowski in the second halfs opening stages.

Arsenal needed fortune to survive as Thierno Barry had two solid penalty shouts rejected for challenges by Jurrien Timber and Saliba.

On two occasions, the away side nearly doubled their advantage, with Leandro Trossard and Martin Zubimendi striking the woodwork.

Still, a ninth shutout in 17 league matches delivered Arteta the present he craved for his sixth year managing Arsenal.