Mikel Merino was Arsenal’s saviour off the bench as he netted a late brace to seal a needed victory over Leicester City. Now without Kai Havertz and Gabriel Martinelli due to hamstring injuries, the Gunners struggled significantly until two moments of real quality in the final 10 minutes.

Despite some bright moments from Nwaneri in the opening 45, Arteta’s new-look attack struggled to get beyond a stubborn Leicester defence. Trossard went closest for the visitors after a lofted pass over the top by Martin Odegaard, but he was unable to get much power on his effort, which allowed Mads Hermansen to gather with ease.

As for Leicester, Wilfred Ndidi tested David Raya with a volley before heading just wide on the stroke of half-time. Nwaneri’s influence continued in the second period with the teenager firing an effort narrowly over before striking the post in the final 15 minutes.

Unsurprisingly, Nwaneri played a huge role in the opening goal as his ball into the box was nodded into the corner by Merino. Moments later, the Spaniard side-footed a superb Leandro Trossard cross into the back of the net to calm any nerves.

The victory has taken Arsenal to within three points of league leaders Liverpool before their clash against Wolves at Anfield on Sunday. With that being said, football.london has taken a look at the fixtures awaiting the two title rivals over the coming weeks.

Arsenal next five Premier League fixtures

February 22 vs West Ham (H) at 3pm

February 26 vs Nott’m Forest (A) at 7.30pm

March 9 vs Manchester United (A) at 4.30pm

March 16 vs Chelsea (H) at 3pm

April 1 vs Fulham (H) at 7:45pm

Verdict: Arsenal have a challenging set of Premier League fixtures on the horizon following the win against Leicester City.

Though the Gunners will be favourites when West Ham visit Emirates Stadium next weekend, Graham Potter has improved the Hammers and therefore will pose a significant challenge. Back-to-back away games then follow with a trip to the City Ground up first.

Nottingham Forest are flying high in the Premier League and will be looking to avenge their 3-0 defeat in north London earlier this season. Arteta’s side are back up north 11 days later for a clash against Manchester United, with it likely Arsenal are the team wanting payback this time after their FA Cup elimination on penalties.

Unsurprisingly, two consecutive home games are then on the calendar with a game against London rivals Chelsea before the March international break. Fulham then make the short trip across the capital for a game under the lights in April.

Liverpool next five Premier League fixtures

February 16 vs Wolves (H) at 2pm

February 23 vs Manchester City (A) at 4.30pm

February 26 vs Newcastle (H) at 8.15pm

March 8 vs Southampton (H) at 3pm

March 15 vs Aston Villa (A) at 12.30pm