Wenger Analyses Qualities Of ‘Dangerous Mérida’

During Arsenal’s incredible journey in this years Carling Cup, it’s been the same set of names who have taken the most credit for the team’s success and achievements, in every round. Strikers Carlos Vela, Nicklas Bendtner and Jay Simpson have hit the headlines, along with midfield duo Jack Wilshere and Aaron Ramsey.

Yet one man, or should I say boy, has been quietly but effectively keeping the Gunners midfield ticking over as well as adding vital width when needed. His name? Fran Mérida Perez. After joining Arsenal via Barcelona - like Cesc Fàbregas - and occupying a similar position to that of the iconic number 4, it’s no wonder comparisons have been made between the two.

Analysing from the touchlines in training and during games, Arsene Wenger believes it’s a mistake to say the Catalan pair are identical players.

“Merida is different to Cesc [Fàbregas], but he is still very dangerous in the final third. If you analyse a game and look who gives the ball every time in the final third, you will see Fran.”

The high praise continues for the exciting youngster, who came out of his shell against Wigan and was prepared to share the burden with Mark Randall of getting “stuck in” to the Latics. This complemented his usual expert passing range, and it’s doing the difficult things like playing those killer balls which Wenger highlights.

“That’s is the most difficult part of the game and that is where Fran is strong.”

He’s going quietly about his business in the Arsenal midfield, but there is no doubt that the 18-year-old will be a key component in any Carling Cup success.