Mikel Merino on adapting to new striker role: ‘When good things happen I’m really proud of it’ | OneFootball

Mikel Merino says he is working every day to improve in his new role as Arsenal’s makeshift striker after helping the Gunners in their 7-1 thrashing of PSV.

Merino was subbed on as a makeshift forward by Mikel Arteta against Leicester City in February, where he proceeded to score twice to secure a late win. The Spaniard added to his tally by scoring the Gunners third against the Dutch Champions, as well as grabbing an assist.

It is a position the midfielder has never played in his entire professional career, with his last foray as a forward coming 20 years ago at the age of seven.

Despite this, the 28-year-old believes anything is possible with the right mentality and a willingness to help the team at all costs:

“It was a long time ago with my school team,” Merino said. “I was playing everywhere, not only striker but it was five kids running round the pitch.

“Now I’m playing as a striker, it’s something new to me, but I’m trying to adapt the best way possible. I’ve been lucky enough to score and assist today so I think I’m helping the team and doing the best I can.

“It’s kind of crazy to be honest, but it’s about having the right mentality, the right approach of the game. If the coach asks you to play one position then you need to take all your characteristics and put it on the table for the team.

“I’m trying to adapt and do things the best way possible. Some days will be better, some will be worse, but the work everyday, the grind, I’m trying to improve everyday in my new position, and trying to help the team. When good things happen I’m really proud of it.”

Playing as Arsenal’s substitute striker is something that Merino takes great pride in, as he says understanding multiple positions is crucial to helping the team, and his own personal improvement:

“I’ve been speaking to the analysts, to the boss as well. I pride myself on understanding what happens on the pitch, not only in my position as an eight, but also other positions.

“Understanding other situations also helps you in your role, so I can understand what a striker in this team does. The other team mates understand what an eight does. That’s the way we work.”

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