Merino brace keeps Arsenal in title hunt with win at Leicester

Arsenal overcame their injury troubles to move within four points of Premier League leaders Liverpool, as substitute Mikel Merino struck twice late on in a 2-0 win over Leicester City on Saturday.

Mikel Arteta’s side struggled to break down their relegation-threatened hosts at the King Power Stadium, but a bold tactical switch proved decisive. With Arsenal’s attacking ranks depleted, Arteta introduced Spain midfielder Merino as an emergency forward, and the move paid off as he netted in the 81st and 88th minutes to extend Arsenal’s unbeaten league run to 15 matches.

The victory was crucial for Arsenal, who had endured a frustrating break from action following their League Cup semi-final exit against Newcastle United and an early FA Cup elimination. Liverpool, who dropped points in midweek with a draw at Everton, can restore their seven-point lead if they beat Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday.

Arteta’s attacking options were severely limited, with Kai Havertz ruled out for the season due to a hamstring injury sustained in training. Gabriel Jesus, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Martinelli were also unavailable, forcing Leandro Trossard to lead the line, flanked by teenager Ethan Nwaneri and the out-of-form Raheem Sterling.

Leicester, battling relegation, struggled to capitalise on Arsenal’s slow start. Wilfred Ndidi came closest for the hosts, sending a header just wide before halftime, while Nwaneri was Arsenal’s liveliest threat, forcing a fine save from Mads Hermansen.

The breakthrough arrived when Nwaneri whipped in a precise cross, allowing Merino to head home from close range. Seven minutes later, Trossard delivered another dangerous ball, and Merino timed his run perfectly to slot in his second, securing three vital points for Arsenal.

(Source: AFP)