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![[WATCH] EPL: Who did Arsenal hero Merino dedicate Leicester brace to?](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/15022025/96c84f0b-0f72-4b9f-a3fb-98cdf81974c7.jpeg?operations=fit(480:))
Emergency striker Mikel Merino notched two goals for Arsenal to close the lead atop the Premier League table to four.
Mikel Merino was Arsenal’s hero in Saturday’s Premier League victory over Leicester City to close Liverpool’s gap at the top of the standings to four.
Leicester vs Arsenal?
Mikel Arteta’s team secured a crucial 2-0 victory away to Leicester, thanks to an unlikely hero in Merino.
The Spanish midfielder, deployed as an emergency centre forward, scored both goals to seal the win and propel the Gunners back into the title race.
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The match was goalless with 20 minutes remaining when Merino was introduced as a substitute.
He made an immediate impact, heading in Ethan Nwaneri's cross to break the deadlock. He then added a second with a composed finish at the far post from Leandro Trossard's centre.
The victory extends Arsenal's unbeaten run in the Premier League to 15 matches, their longest such streak since 2011.
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09:25 - 15.02.2025
Arsenal striker options: Who can Arteta play at centre-forward after injury to Havertz and Jesus?
The Gunners have no out-and-out striker available for selection right now, no thanks to their injury crisis in attack. However, there are still other ways the North London side could solve this issue.
It also closes the gap on league leaders Liverpool to four points, with Arne Slot’s men yet to play their match this weekend.
Arsenal struggled to create clear-cut chances in the first half but improved after the break, with Nwaneri particularly impressive in attack.
Merino's introduction proved decisive, however, as he demonstrated a striker's instinct in front of goal to secure a vital three points for his team.
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Who did Merino dedicate both goals to?
The midfield man, who scored a brace for the first time in a top-five European league, dedicated his brace to his wife, Lola Liberal, after forgetting to get her a gift on Valentine’s Day.
“It’s the first time I scored a brace coming off the bench as a striker but I think it’s a good day to score because I forgot to give my wife something for Valentine’s Day, so this goes to her,” Merino told TNT Sports after the match.
"I think she will appreciate this more than a rose or some chocolate."
What next for Arsenal?
The Gunners do not return to league action until next Saturday when they host West Ham at the Emirates.
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