Mikel Arteta has opted to start Mikel Merino at striker in Arsenal’s Premier League clash with West Ham United on Saturday afternoon.

The Gunners are without a natural striker due to injuries to both Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz, and Leandro Trossard’s spell as a false nine in last week’s victory over Leicester City offered little to impress.

Arsenal were toothless before midfielder Merino came off the bench to take over as a striker. The Spain international netted twice late on to seal all three points, and Arteta has given him the nod from the start this time.

Merino’s inclusion means Raheem Sterling drops to the bench, with Trossard and Ethan Nwaneri flanking the makeshift striker.

Sterling came under fire after a poor performance against Leicester. Arteta acknowledged the Chelsea loanee needs to do more to contribute in the final few months of the season, having failed to catch the eye thus far.

The only other change from the team that began against Leicester comes at left-back. Myles Lewis-Skelly drops to the bench, with Italy international Riccardo Calafiori taking his place.

The Gunners have the chance to close the gap to league leaders Liverpool to just five points ahead of the Reds’ meeting with Manchester City on Sunday.

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