ARSENAL fans have demanded that Mikel Arteta makes a shock tactical switch after Mikel Merino scored a worldie hat-trick for Spain.
The midfielder, 29, lined up alongside Gunners team-mate Martin Zubimendi as his national side thrashed Turkey 6-0 in Sunday’s World Cup qualifier.
Barcelona star Pedri opened the scoring after six minutes before Merino bagged his first, netting a sharp finish after some intricate passing play from the Spaniards.
Merino then made it 3-0 on the stroke of half-time with a similar shot following more dynamic passing, this time finishing with his weaker right foot.
Barca’s Ferran Torres got in on the action early in the second half.
But Merino’s best goal was yet to come as he netted a 20-yard scorcher to make it 5-0.
Pedri then scored his second of the game minutes later to complete Spain’s rout.
And following Merino’s prowess in the opposition box, Arsenal fans quickly urged boss Arteta to shake up his formation.
The gaffer almost always plays a 4-3-3 system.
But with Merino proving himself to be a deadly finisher, supporters now want to see a 4-4-2 formation with the midfielder deployed as a STRIKER alongside summer signing Viktor Gyokeres.
Merino could yet end up being a replacement for the Swede as a lone forward for the Gunners, with Gyokeres potentially missing key matches next year after being called as a witness in a Swedish court case.
One fan said: “4-4-2 will suit Merino and Gyokeres like twins.”
Another declared: “Guys will call me so insane for this but stick Merino up front with Gyokeres in a 4-4-2.”
One noted: “Second striker with Havertz/Merino playing behind Gyokeres even better.”
Another added: “Maybe it’s time Arteta goes 4-4-2 and plays Merino up top with Gyokeres.”
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