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Arsenal hero Mikel Merino dedicates victory to wife as late Valentine's Day present

Mikel Merino is Arsenal's hero at Leicester with two late goals to cut Liverpool's lead to a meagre four points

15 February, 2025 16:06
Arsenal hero Mikel Merino dedicates victory to wife as late Valentine's Day present

Mikel Merino: Deep deep joy

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Arsenal hero Mikel Merino dedicates victory to wife as late Valentine's Day

Mikel Merino was Arsenal's hero at Leicester with two late goals to cut Liverpool's lead to a meagre four points 

It was the first time the Gunners hero scored twice in a game since netting a brace for Osasuna against Gimnastic in the Segunda Division play-offs back in June 2016.

Speaking to TNT Sports, Arsenal's makeshift striker said: "He [Mikel Arteta] told me to come in as a striker this morning. We were talking about it a little bit with one of the assistants. It is the first time in my career that I've played that position. 

"He told me to go with my strengths and luckily I could help the team with two goals today."

When asked if Arteta plans to start him as a striker regularly, Arsenal's humble hero Merino replied: "I don't think so to be honest. It is the first time I have scored a brace coming off the bench as a striker. 

"I forgot to give my wife something for Valentine's Day so this goes to her.

I think she will appreciate this more than a rose and some chocolate. 

"Today was a tough game. But I think these games are the ones you need the spirit. Games like today are really good for the squad."

The summer signing from Real Sociedad saved the Gunners after an underwhelming display that looked to be heading for a goalless draw against Ruud van Nistelrooy’ relegation battlers.

Unlikely hero Mikel Merino grabbed two late goals to keep Arsenal in the Premier League title race - but only just.

Merino popped up with an unexpected brace in the 80th and 87th minutes despite a deeply disjointed display at Leicester - not that their delighted boss Arteta and their fans will care a jot this weekend, as the Gunners hero took time to praise the exceptional Ethan Nwaneri saying: "He is an amazing player.

"Every time I do an interview you guys ask me about him. 

"We have to keep the foot on the gas and if we keep doing this job then good things will come in the future."

 

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