Arsenal's coach Mikel Arteta has been able to enjoy a couple of weeks of top form from his side(Image: CESAR MANSO/AFP via Getty Images)

Arsenal’s players have been on fire during the international break, which will delight Mikel Arteta. The Spaniard has made several references to how he is a keen watcher of his stars while they’re away with their respective nations.

Mikel Merino, in particular, has continued his fine form for Spain. He scored twice on Tuesday evening, taking his tally to six goals in four World Cup qualifying matches; only two players in this run of qualifiers have more.

Arteta has spoken in the past about how he likes to use the energy and form of players who have done well while away with their national sides. Speaking after Merino’s selection against Nottingham Forest, with Declan Rice being rested, he gave a clear verdict on why.

“Yes, as well, because Mikel [Merino] comes after scoring four goals in two games with a really high emotional state,” he said. “I want to use that, when a player is in that moment, I want to play...