"The former Sporting CP forward has struggled to make a mark, with most of his league goals coming against teams expected to fight relegation ( Leeds United, Burnley and Nottingham Forest). Even more worrying is how ineffective the striker's overall game has been. Against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Dec. 13, the Swedish striker registered just 15 touches as the worst team in the league frustrated Arsenal. He similarly struggled to get involved in the Gunners' 4-1 win over Aston Villa on Tuesday, with only 16 touches."
"When Gyökeres picked up an injury in November, Arteta turned to his emergency striker: Mikel Merino. The Spaniard combined his midfield and forward traits, offering Arsenal more than a traditional No. 9 would. Even with Gyökeres back from injury, there is enough evidence to suggest Merino is a serious candidate to start up front. Merino's growth in the role in difficult matches helped make Arsenal's attack look more fluid, dangerous and interchangeable, and he could well be their best option."
Viktor Gyökeres was signed to be Arsenal's No. 9 but has struggled to influence matches, scoring mainly against relegation-threatened teams and registering very few touches in some games. An injury in November forced Mikel Merino into a forward role, and he combined midfield and striking attributes to provide Arsenal more than a traditional centre forward. Merino's movement has made the attack more fluid, dangerous and interchangeable in difficult matches. Even with Gyökeres fit, Merino presents a strong alternative to start up front while the team determines how best to utilise the £54 million signing.
Read at ESPN.com
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