Ian Wright gives his reaction to Merino performance against Leicester City | OneFootball

Ian Wright is full of praise for Arsenal hero Mikel Merino after he stepped up and helped the Gunners to secure a 2-0 against Leicester City last night.

Without a striker, Arsenal has refused to explore the free agency market, with Mikel Arteta insisting they will find an internal solution.

The Spanish gaffer started the game with Leandro Trossard up top and being flanked by Ethan Nwaneri and Raheem Sterling.

On the bench, the Gunners did not have another attacking option, which left fans wondering what they would do to change things up in the second half.

However, Arteta replaced the struggling Sterling with Mikel Merino, who went straight into the false nine role, with Trossard drifting to the left.

The Spaniard scored twice to seal victory for an Arsenal team that had struggled to fashion clear-cut chances before that time.

(Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

Like most Gooners, Wright wondered who would step up when the game began and he is impressed with how Merino responded to his concerns.

After the game, the Arsenal idol said on Premier League Productions:

“We said at the start of the show, who is going to come off the bench and do something? We didn’t say Mikel Merino even though his name was mentioned as one of the false nines. He came on and obviously proved his point. I’m delighted for him and for the boys, he’s come on and done the job for us.”

We needed Merino to step up today, and he did so brilliantly, what a player the Spaniard is.

ADMIN COMMENT

So here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….

You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.

More Stories / Latest News

Ian Wright gives his reaction to Merino performance against Leicester City

16 February 2025, 9:00

“It’s a nice problem” Martin Keown wonders where Nwaneri will play long-term

15 February 2025, 23:00

Joe Cole compares Nwaneri to legendary superstar after his show against Leicester

15 February 2025, 21:30