“Love how we just accepted that” - Arsenal fans happy to watch 29-year-old star perform makeshift role in line-up to face Sunderland

Arsenal fans were delighted to see Mikel Merino start as the striker in their Premier League game against Sunderland, with Viktor Gyokeres ruled out. Many fans have accepted that the 29-year-old Spaniard is their backup striker, with Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus also out due to injury issues.

Mikel Arteta has stuck with his reliable options in the backline, starting with David Raya in goal. Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Gabriel, and Riccardo Calafiori keep their place in defence as expected.

Martin Zubimendi is playing in the pivot, with Declan Rice and Eberechi Eze to support him. Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard are on the wings, with Merino leading the attack.

Some fans are delighted to see the Spaniard leading the attack and posted:

Arteta was asked about using Merino in the attacking role with his key strikers ruled out, and he said (via club website):

"It’s always easy when we have players of that quality. We have found a way to play Mikel in three different roles already this season, and he has performed in all of them. He had a massive contribution the other night with his goals, especially with Viktor out, which is great to have."

Talking about the Spaniard's role in the squad, he added:

"I think they’re all squad players because we have built a squad that can have the capacity to achieve what we want. The roles will change and his has changed now in the last two seasons in different ways for different situations as well, but the impact on the team remains very, very positive."

Mikel Merino has played 17 matches as a striker since joining Arsenal. He has scored eight times, while assisting thrice.

Mikel Arteta comments on Arsenal playing with Mikel Merino as striker

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta spoke about the qualities Mikel Merino brings to the pitch when Arsenal play with him as a striker. He heaped praise on the Spaniard and said that he always wants to win, adding that the hunger is key and said (via club website):

"It’s not natural because he hasn’t played there before in his career, but he’s such an intelligent and competitive player that he can adapt to any position, because first of all, he’s so willing to do his very best, to understand what he needs to do. He’s always asking questions, and he’s a winner. Wherever he plays, the only thing he wants is to win, to contribute to the team, and when you have that mindset, things normally go well for you."

Arsenal can extend the lead to nine points on Manchester City if they beat Sunderland on Saturday, November 8.

Edited by Sripad