Merino's goal 'technically as good' as Rice free-kick
Former Arsenal defender Matthew Upson, speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live'sFootball Daily podcast about Mikel Merino's goal against Real Madrid:"There has been a lot of criticism for Arsenal without a number nine but wow - what a finish from Merino. On the swivel it was not easy - the ball was travelling at some speed and had a little kick up off the turf. "It's just bounced a tiny bit towards him and he's leaning back a bit as well. To control it and guide it into the far post was just a brilliant finish. "Technically it was as good as the free-kick moments but the free-kicks were just the star of the show. For Declan Rice to step up and bang two in like that was incredible."Arsenal should take so much confidence and belief in how strong this team is as a unit. The attitude and work-rate had a real intensity about it. Tactically, it was great. The players played well individually, but it just had a feel of a team with real confidence."This game produced some real top-class moments that the fans will remember for a long time."Listen to the full episode on BBC Sounds
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The Independent
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Evening Standard
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