Mikel Merino, the central midfielder deployed as a makeshift striker, was an easy target for criticism and ridicule after a performance that left Arteta “very, very angry”, but the 28-year-old was not the problem against West Ham.

David Raya has suggested that Mikel Merino is unlikely to start up front for Arsenal despite his match-winning heroics off the bench last weekend. Injuries to several key attackers have left Mikel Arteta’s side bereft of options in the final third,

Arsenal: The stats that show why Mikel Merino should start as striker against West Ham - Data could be key factor as Mikel Arteta weighs up whether to start Spaniard up front this weekend

Arsenal host West Ham in the Premier League this afternoon hoping to draw closer to Liverpool in the title race. The Gunners have reignited their title challenge in recent weeks but still trail Arne Slot’s men by eight points after Liverpool drew 2-2 with Aston Villa during the week.