Henrikh Mkhitaryan is “brilliant to work with”, says Per MertesackerFebruary 24, 2018 - 15:33 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Arsenal captain Per Mertesacker has hailed Henrikh Mkhitaryan’s attitude since joining the club, pronouncing the January signing “brilliant to work with”, The Evening Standard says. Mkhitaryan joined Arsenal from Manchester United in a swap deal that saw Alexis Sanchez go in the opposite direction and the Armenian playmaker has settled swiftly into life in north London. The 29-year-old, long admired by Gunners boss Arsene Wenger, provided three assists in his home debut, a 5-1 win over Everton, and was the star player in last week’s 3-0 win in Ostersund. When Mkhitaryan arrived Mertesacker said that his signing had given the Arsenal squad a “lift” and it appears that his encouraging first impression was correct. “I said when we signed Micki that I was delighted to have him with us, and the early signs have been impressive,” Mertesacker said. “I’m told that he has already assisted five goals [sic], and I’m not too surprised at that because he has that vision, that creativity. He’s not only a good player but he’s a great character too. He’s interested in improving and is eager to learn, even though he’s 29. “Honestly, it’s been brilliant to work with him. Micki wants to work hard, he wants to learn and he wants to take on our DNA, which fits so well to him personally. “It was promising to see Micki combining the way he did with Mesut, who also impressed me. It’s good to see him getting into those positions and finishing the way he did.” Mkhitaryan is ineligible for Sunday’s EFL Cup Final against Manchester City after playing 21 minutes earlier in the tournament with United. Photo. Getty Images Top stories Armenian gymnast, Olympic bronze medalist Artur Davtyan has reached the finals of the World Cup. Gor Manvelyan has denied reports alleging that he has expressed a desire to one day play for the French national team. Roma midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan is not considering FC Spartak Moscow as his next haven, according to fresh reports. 10 Armenian lifters will compete in the 2021 World Championships scheduled to be held from 7 to 17 December in Tashkent. Partner news | European Parliament to discuss repression in Azerbaijan The European Parliament will discuss repression of civil society in Azerbaijan on April 24 PACE wants concessions from Azerbaijan to accept Baku back A PACE co-rapporteur said that Azerbaijani authorities must make certain concessions so that the country can return to PACE. Cyprus parliament honors Armenian genocide victims Acting House President Zacharias Koulias noted that April 24 marks the “black anniversary” of the Armenian genocide. Armenia PM, France envoy discuss regional matters Issues related to the consistent development of Armenia-France cooperation were discussed. |