Declan Rice sends ‘incredible’ message to Arsenal team mate who stunned on international duty
Declan Rice has responded to Arsenal teammate Mikel Merino following the Spaniard’s stunning performances while away on international duty.
Merino started his first Premier League game of the season for Mikel Arteta’s side last weekend, as they were beaten 1-0 by title rivals Liverpool at Anfield.
A late Dominic Szoboszlai free-kick was the difference, with the North London side criticised for their defensive approach and failing to put real pressure on the Reds’ backline.
To make matters worse, Arsenal are expected to be without William Saliba for the next month, after he was forced off with an ankle injury five minutes into the contest.
Mikel Merino scores four goals for Spain
While away on international duty, Merino starred for Spain, scoring four goals in two matches for the European Championship holders.
The 29-year-old managed an impressive hat-trick as Luis de la Fuente’s side beat Turkey 6-0, as well as getting on the scoresheet in a 3-0 victory over Bulgaria.
It’s not the first time the Spaniard has showcased his goalscoring prowess either, grabbing seven Premier League goals for Arsenal last season.
With both Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus out injured, Arteta was forced to play Merino as a lone striker for a period, and the former Real Sociedad man delivered, even finding the net against Real Madrid in the Champions League.
After his performances on international duty, Merino took to Instagram to react, posting a photo of himself celebrating his hat-trick against Turkey with the caption: “1,2,3…”
Clearly impressed with his midfield partner’s goalscoring exploits, Rice commented: “Incredible.”
Arsenal owner sees huge increase in fortune
Meanwhile, Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke has seen his fortune increase by more than £1.8billion over the past year, sources have told Football Insider.
Kroenke hasn’t always been a popular figure among Arsenal fans, with many questioning his intentions since investing in the club in 2007.
The American billionaire increased his shareholding over several years before buying the Gunners outright in 2018.
Bloomberg’s Billionaire Index has revealed Kroenke has seen his personal wealth surge by £1.85bn over the past year, up to £17.28bn, making him the 102nd richest person in the world.
For more Arsenal and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.