Arteta Weighs Multiple Attacking Strategies Following Merino’s Brace Against Leicester

Arsenal have been experimenting with various players taking on the striking role, rather than just relying on midfielder Mikel Merino (28), as manager Mikel Arteta (42) disclosed on Friday. The club is facing an injury crisis that has depleted their recognised striker options.

Both Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz are sidelined for the season due to knee and hamstring injuries, respectively, while influential wide players Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli are still in recovery from their own hamstring issues.

This leaves Arteta with Leandro Trossard, Raheem Sterling, and Ethan Nwaneri as his primary attacking options. However, Merino made a notable impact as a substitute against Leicester City last weekend, netting two late goals in a vital 2-0 victory while playing as a forward.

When questioned about whether he had informed Merino of his makeshift striker role for the upcoming match against West Ham United, Arteta responded: “No, not him or any other players. I want the lads to take the initiative once they’re on the pitch.”

“We’ve trained with various players in the last few weeks, and he (Merino) has been one of them, along with others.”

Additionally, Arsenal’s academy players have been integrated into senior training sessions, hoping to replicate the successes of Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly this season.

“We currently have players training with us regularly, familiarising themselves with our system and showing they’re ready, which is encouraging,” Arteta noted.

Currently in second place, Arsenal have the opportunity to narrow the gap to Liverpool’s lead to five points if they secure a win against West Ham. Furthermore, Manchester City could assist in Arsenal’s title ambitions if they manage to overcome the league leaders on Sunday.

“We need to focus on our own game. It will be challenging tomorrow, but if we perform well, we’ll turn our attention to the Sunday clash between Liverpool and City,” Arteta added.

“There are still 13 matches remaining, and plenty to contest. We must be present and remember that we possess considerable experience in the Premier League, understanding just how tough every opponent can be.”

Arteta mentioned that defender Ben White is fit and ready to return following an extended spell on the sidelines; however, he is uncertain about Martinelli and Saka’s availability ahead of their Champions League last 16 match against PSV Eindhoven in the first week of March.

“I can’t say for sure, that’s something for the medical team. They are making good progress,” Arteta explained.

“Gabby (Martinelli) is slightly ahead of Bukayo, but we’ll need to assess how both are feeling and what we’re willing to pursue.”