Arsenal’s legend, Ian Wright, has suggested that Mikel Merino adapts to the role of the “new number” asked to fill in recent weeks, even by providing attributes that Kai Haviertz does not.
The Gunners did not have a striker when Hapertz and Gabriel Jesus were ruled out for the rest of the season due to injury, which caused Mikel Artet to ask Merino to play later.
International Spain has scored four goals as a striker, including The Sunday winner against Chelsea. But Wright explained that it is more than goals in the service of the team.
“What we have seen is that he is a very smart player,” the retired star said while a punch on the Premier Leagues Matchday Live Post-game coverage.
“When you see him, and links the play, when the ball) comes to him; I saw it again when they played PSV, he is so compound and knows where he passes.
“This is exactly what Arsenal Need to keep the ball in this third (attacker). It’s something we don’t do well because we don’t have a focal point. Kai Hartz Nor is this player, where he links the game of how Merino can do it. Merino does it in a way where he can hold it and you can go to join it. Then, suddenly, we are playing a little higher. “
Merino himself also appeared in the broadcast, revealing that he feels as if he is adapting well to the new role he is asked.
“It is very different to play as a midfielder, but not being a striker (natural), I do not feel that the pressure as I should mark in all games,” he said.
“The main thing for me is to try to help the team in small details, from the press, to place -in the best places for my teammates to be better, maybe dropping when I need to give a little calm with possession. It’s different from what I’m used to, but I think I’m adapting well.”
