The Spain international scored his third goal as a makeshift No 9 in Arsenal’s 7-1 Champions League win over PSV on Tuesday.

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

Jermaine Pennant has urged Mikel Arteta to deploy Ethan Nwaneri in a central role to try and reignite Arsenal ’s attacking thrust. Dropped points against West Ham and Nottingham Forest have seen the wheels come off the Gunners’ Premier League title charge, with Arsenal now trailing runaway leaders Liverpool by 13 points.

Declan Rice has sent Arsenal teammate Mikel Merino a two-word message following their emphatic Champions League victory.

Mikel Merino will play as the centre-forward. Mikel Merino is a versatile, strong makeshift centre forward with excellent hold-up play, aerial ability, vision, and intelligent link-up skills.

When the January transfer closed for business, the simple fact that Arsenal still hadn't signed a striker was always likely to come back and bite them.

We break down the action from a record away win for Arsenal in the Champions League last-16 first-leg tie in Eindhoven

Arsenal rose to the challenge set by Mikel Arteta as they thrashed PSV Eindhoven 7-1 in their Champions League round of 16 first leg showdown. Prior to the clash at the Philips Stadion, the Gunners boss had urged his side to take a strong step on the European stage after seeing their Premier League title bid falter in recent weeks.