Mikel Merino was Arsenal’s saviour off the bench as he netted a late brace to seal a needed victory over Leicester City. Now without Kai Havertz and Gabriel Martinelli due to hamstring injuries, the Gunners struggled significantly until two moments of real quality in the final 10 minutes.
Despite some bright moments from Nwaneri in the opening 45, Arteta’s new-look attack struggled to get beyond a stubborn Leicester defence. Trossard went closest for the visitors after a lofted pass over the top by Martin Odegaard, but he was unable to get much power on his effort, which allowed Mads Hermansen to gather with ease.
As for Leicester, Wilfred Ndidi tested David Raya with a volley before heading just wide on the stroke of half-time. Nwaneri’s influence continued in the second period with the teenager firing an effort narrowly over before striking the post in the final 15 minutes.
Unsurprisingly, Nwaneri played a huge role in the opening goal as his ball into the box was nodded into the corner by Merino. Moments later, the Spaniard side-footed a superb Leandro Trossard cross into the back of the net to calm any nerves.
The victory has taken Arsenal to within three points of league leaders Liverpool before their clash against Wolves at Anfield on Sunday.
Arsenal next five Premier League fixtures
February 22 vs West Ham (H) at 3pm
February 26 vs Nott’m Forest (A) at 7.30pm
March 9 vs Manchester United (A) at 4.30pm
March 16 vs Chelsea (H) at 3pm
April 1 vs Fulham (H) at 7:45pm
