Fans think Mikel Merino is 'in the doghouse' after sending message to his wife in post-match interview

Arsenal midfielder-turned-striker Mikel Merino dedicated his two goals against Leicester City to his wife, Lola Liberal, after he made an awkward Valentine’s Day admission.

The 28-year-old, who joined the Gunners from Real Sociedad in August for £28.4 million, netted a late brace on Saturday to secure a crucial three points for title challengers Arsenal.

Merino replaced the out-of-form Raheem Sterling with 20 minutes of the game remaining, as Mikel Arteta instructed the Spaniard to play as a striker rather than his preferred midfield position.

Sterling, Leandro Trossard and Ethan Nwaneri were tasked with leading the line from the first whistle but after a far-from-inspiring display, the physical presence of Merino changed the game completely.

After heading home from Nwaneri's cross to make it 1-0, he then finished superbly at the back post to seal all three points.

Speaking in his post-match interview with TNT Sports, Merino was asked what Arteta said to him before coming on at the King Power.

"Well, he told me I was going to come in as a striker," Merino said. "This morning, we were talking about it a little bit with one of the assistants. Honestly, it was a surprise because it’s the first time in my career that I played in that position.

"But yeah, he told me to go as a striker, to make sure I go with my strengths. I think I saw it and luckily I could help the team to today."

Asked if he will play more as a striker from now until the end of the season, Merino added: "I don’t know, I don’t think so to be honest. You know, it’s funny because I’ve only scored two braces in my career. It’s the first time I’ve scored a brace coming off the bench as a striker."

To the surprise of many, the former Real Sociedad man then brought up his Valentine's Day mishap, featuring wife Lola Liberal.

"I think it’s a good day to score because I forgot to give my wife something for Valentine’s Day," Merino smiled. "So this goes to her. I think she will appreciate this more than a rose or some chocolate."

Here's how fans on social media reacted to his admission.

One said: "Merino is in the doghouse... two goals instead of a valentine gift," while another commented: "Merino is so locked in he forgot to get his wife a valentine's."

A third wrote: "Did Merino just admit to neglecting to celebrate Valentine's with his wife, while saying his goals are his gift to her? Someone please make sure he never gets in front of a microphone again."

A fourth said: "Merino just said he forgot to get his wife a Valentine’s gift and dedicates his goals to her. Brother, that won’t get you out of it."

A fifth added: "Merino didn't give his wife Valentine’s Day present so he decided to score a brace for her. Goals instead of roses. What a man."

Arsenal currently sit four points behind leaders Liverpool, who will host Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday afternoon.