The mental hurdle of returning from a foot fracture can often be as challenging as the physical one, but Merino insists he has no lingering doubts about his fitness. After joining in the Premier League title celebrations, he believes he has already passed the most rigorous "test" of his injury recovery.
Reflecting on the title celebrations and his current state, Merino added: "I feel like I've also won it from within. That was the acid test. If my foot could withstand those jumps, it could withstand anything. I'm fine, I feel very comfortable, very at ease with the ball, on the field, physically. My foot is responding in the best way and I don't even think about it anymore." With the Premier League trophy presentation at Selhurst Park on the horizon, Merino’s return ensures Arsenal go into their final two fixtures of the season at near full strength.