Eberechi Eze was the star of the show as Arsenal thrashed Tottenham Hotspur, but he wasn’t the only player who impressed.
The Gunners dominated Spurs from the very first whistle. They were the better side and completely deserved their 4-1 win.
Eze will get all the plaudits for his hat-trick and rightly so. But another player was quietly superb in the North London Derby – Mikel Merino.
Mikel Merino was Arsenal’s unsung hero vs Tottenham
Arsenal had both Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz unavailable because of injuries, so Mikel Arteta turned to Merino once again.
The Spaniard played up top in the second half of last season, and even though it was a completely new experience for him, he performed really well.
Merino has impressed in that role in recent months too, and he was once again excellent in Arsenal’s win against Tottenham.
The former Real Sociedad man held the ball up really well, created space for his teammates and played a big part in the attacks.
MORE ARSENAL STORIES
His pass for Leandro Trossard’s goal was outstanding, and even though he won’t get the amount of praise he deserves, he should be really happy with his display.
There is no update on Gyokeres or Havertz’s return dates, but Arsenal fans have nothing to worry about because Merino can do a job until they’re back.
Which is Mikel Merino’s best position at Arsenal?
Mikel Arteta delivers instant verdict on Mikel Merino’s North London Derby display
Arteta was a happy man after Arsenal’s 4-1 win against Tottenham on Sunday.
The Gunners boss loved seeing Eze score his hat-trick, but he was delighted with Merino’s performance as a striker as well.
In his press conference after the game, Arteta was asked about the former Real Sociedad man leading the line in the North London Derby.
He replied, as per Football London: “Yes, I think he was incredible again. We are asking him to fill as a nine and he’s not a nine. Such an intelligent player.
“He gives you the right reason to trust him.”