Mikel Merino was among the goals once again in midweek as he was back as a striker for Arsenal in the Champions League.
The Gunners took on Slavia Prague in a tough encounter, with plenty of changes needed for the Gunners across the team.
One of those was up front, as Viktor Gyokeres’ injury now leaves Mikel Arteta with a lack of striker options at his disposal.
[
Click to subscribe to the podcast ](https://www.youtube.com/@BeyondTheBackFour?sub_confirmation=1)
As a result, Mikel Merino was thrown in as the centre forward once again, as he helped power Arsenal towards victory over Slavia Prague.
Mikel Merino celebrates scoring for Arsenal against Slavia Prague
Photo by Gabriel Kuchta/Getty Images
Gabriel Martinelli calls Mikel Merino “R9” after Arsenal display
Mikel Merino’s place as a striker is no longer a new thing, with it being a position he took up during the latter half of last season.
The Spaniard was surprisingly effective, with his physical capabilities keeping him in the game at all times.
With plenty of unfortunate injuries at Arsenal, it was time for Merino to return as the striker, and he did so in fine fashion with two goals.
It was a brace that powered the Gunners towards three more points in the Champions League, with plenty of praise coming from his teammates.
Taking to social media, Merino posted an image with the caption: “Champions League nights.”
Gabriel Martinelli responded straight away by saying: “R9,” likening him to the legendary Brazilian striker Ronaldo Nazario.
Praise continued to pour in, with David Raya saying: “Merigol.”
Declan Rice also said: “What a guy.”
It’s clear that the Arsenal players are delighted with the impact of Merino and what he brings to the team, whether that is in his usual position or elsewhere.
Mikel Merino celebrates scoring for Arsenal
Photo by MB Media/Getty Images
Mikel Arteta praises Mikel Merino after Arsenal beat Slavia Prague
It wasn’t just the Arsenal players who had plenty of positive things to say about Merino after the game against Slavia Prague.
Mikel Arteta joined the discussion when asked after the game about the impact of the makeshift striker.
He said: “It’s a joy to have him. I always say the same thing. It’s his versatility on the pitch, the things that he can do, it’s his mindset, it’s his leadership, it’s the way he is as a person.
“Today, we are missing a lot of attacking players, and we have to find different solutions. He comes in the Champions League and scores two goals.”
While he may not always be viewed as the most glamorous of midfield options available at Arsenal, his importance to the squad cannot be underestimated.