Mikel Merino has emerged as a crucial makeshift striker for Arsenal following injuries to key players Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus. Initially only discussed shortly before a game against Leicester City, Merino took on the role and swiftly made an impact by scoring twice in his first outing as a striker. As he has settled into this position, he reflects on his experiences battling physical defenders and adapting his gameplay. Despite the challenges of being a forward, he maintains focus on the collective effort rather than individual scoring pressure.
Mikel Merino has joked that he is "getting a taste" for playing as a makeshift striker, having admirably plugged the gap in Arsenal's frontline.
The idea of him taking that role wasn't seriously discussed until the morning of Leicester City game, three days after Havertz's injury.
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