"Obviously, this is a team sport and I'm just trying to fill the role of the number nine even though I'm not a classic number nine, or not born as a number nine. I'm really happy to be helping the team with goals, but also with my hard work, my running, my tracking. And with the quality we have in the squad they pass the ball at the right time in the right spot and I'm always there."
"Tactics-wise, I knew what the number nine role was. Watching even meeting with Mikel [Arteta] makes it clear what everyone's role is. I learnt a lot last season and I think I'm exploiting it a lot this season."
Mikel Merino scored twice as Arsenal won 3-0 in the Champions League while operating as an improvised number nine. Arsenal were without Viktor Gyokeres, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus due to injuries, prompting Merino to lead the line. Merino credited teammates' attacking quality and timely passing for creating scoring chances and stressed his contribution through goals, running and tracking. He attributed tactical clarity to meetings with Mikel Arteta and learning from last season. Arsenal will face Sunderland next, who drew 1-1 with Everton to move back into the Premier League top four.
Read at Soccer News
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