Mikel Arteta’s decision to replace Raheem Sterling with Merino in the 69th minute paid off as Arsenal closed the gap to Liverpool with a vital win at the King Power.
Merino’s role as a makeshift striker only came as Havertz joined Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli on the sidelines, but the Spaniard stepped up.
Arsenal forward Kai Havertz shared an update from hospital after undergoing a “successful” operation on his hamstring injury.
The 25-year-old said he is now recovering after a “tough few days” physically and mentally, with Havertz unable to help the Gunners in their title bid.
“The last few days have been tough to process both physically and mentally but yesterday was a good day,” Havertz posted.
