Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta will need to think outside the box for the Gunners after Victor Gokeres will miss Tuesday night’s Champions League game against Slavia Prague.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta described the injury problem as “concerning” after Swedish international Viktor Gokeres was sent off at half-time in Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Burnley, and he will be absent from Arsenal’s game against Slavia Prague.
Gökeres sustained a muscle injury on Sunday and will undergo further tests. The issue spoiled what had been a good afternoon for Arsenal, with Jokeles scoring against the Clarets to keep the north London side in good form and end a run of five games without a goal in the Premier League.
When asked about the 27-year-old’s problems, Arteta admitted, “No, I’m worried because he doesn’t really have a muscle problem, he needed to leave the pitch and he felt something. That’s obviously never a good sign, especially for a player who is so explosive.”
“So we’re doing some more investigation to understand the circumstances of the injury and will make an announcement as soon as we know.”
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This leaves Arsenal in a familiar position. This problem was supposed to be solved to some extent by the transfer of Gokeres. Arteta is once again without a capable forward, with his favorite deputy Kai Havertz also absent, which could force the Spaniard to once again use Mikel Merino as an emergency number nine.
Merino took charge during an injury crisis last season and performed reasonably well. The former Newcastle and Real Sociedad midfielder led the way, scoring six goals in 12 games and registering a further three assists.
The 29-year-old provides physical presence and focus, but is still new to the position. “Mikel wants to do really well. He has never played that position before but he is scoring goals,” Arteta said in March.
“He’s a really dangerous player in the box and he helps us out. I’m really happy for him. Physically, it’s a completely different game to play as a number nine.”
Merino, who came on in place of Gokeres against Burnley, is feeling no further strain. “It’s different playing as a midfielder, but I don’t feel any pressure to be honest,” he said.
“The main thing for me is trying to help the team with the little things, from pressing to putting myself in the best position for my teammates. It’s a different role than what I’m used to, but I think I’ve adapted pretty well.”
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