Arsenal’s unlikely hero Mikel Merino joked that his brace against Leicester City was dedicated to his wife after he forgot to get her a Valentine’s Day gift
Arsenal’s surprise hero Mikel Merino had been left red faced on Valentine’s Day.
Merino, 28, netted a brace from the bench as the Gunners pilled the pressure on Liverpool at the summit of the Premier League table. And in his post-match interview, Merino revealed he’s dedicating the goals to his wife after forgetting to buy her flowers.
Speaking to TNT Sports reporter Becky Ives, he said: It’s the first time in my career that I’ve played as a striker. The manager told me to use my strengths and I think I did that.”
And once asked if he expects to thrown up top again, he added: “I don’t think so, to be honest.
“But it’s a good day to score because I forgot to give my wife a Valentine’s Day present, so I think she’ll appreciate this more than a rose or some chocolates.”
Despite his double, Merino was snubbed for the Player of the Match award, which was handed to 17-year-old sensation Ethan Nwaneri.
“He’s an amazing player. Every time I do an interview, you guys ask me for him,” Merino joked. “That’s natural because he is such a talent.
“He has such a wonderful left foot and he put the ball right on my head so that all I could do was score.”
Arsenal have now cut into Liverpool’s lead at the top of the table, which they had extended in the week despite a late equaliser from James Tarkowski, against Everton, which sent Goodison Park into dreamland.
Arne Slot’s side are back in action on Sunday, hosting Wolves at Anfield. Liverpool are flying high at the top – but they have hit a bump in the road in recent weeks.
The Reds have won three of their last six games.