Leandro Trossard keen to continue playing his part in ‘big games’ for Arsenal

Leandro Trossard hopes his double in Arsenal’s 4-0 win at Ipswich sent a timely reminder to manager Mikel Arteta ahead of next week’s Champions League semi-final against Paris St Germain.

Trossard netted in both halves of Arsenal’s victory after he was tasked with leading the line in place of makeshift forward Mikel Merino.

Merino, who has been deployed up front in the absence of injured duo Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz, reverted to midfield alongside Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard for Arsenal’s trip to Portman Road.

And with Thomas Partey suspended for the opening leg against PSG at the Emirates, Merino could again be used in midfield with Trossard deployed at the spearhead of Arsenal’s attack.

Trossard has struggled to cement a place in Arteta’s line-up but following the first brace of his Arsenal career, and the eighth and ninth goals of his season so far, he said: “I’m very confident. Everyone needs to be on their toes and be ready to play.

“There are some big games coming up so everyone wants to be confident going into these games. As a forward player this is how you want to be and it’s good for everyone. It is always nice to be on the scoresheet to help your team.

“We want to win every game. I know it’s been up and down (this season), but we want to keep the momentum going and that’s what we did against Ipswich. Now we can look forward to the next one.”

Trossard could be handed another audition prior the visit of PSG when Arsenal host Crystal Palace at the Emirates on Wednesday.

Asked if the Belgium international is ready to start against PSG, Arteta said: “He’s certainly ready to play in any position. We have to make certain adjustments, not because of PSG but because of the situation we had with Thomas and a few other players.

“But that’s good because the team shows adaptability, and versatility for certain players to play in different positions. That’s very much needed, especially when we have the numbers that we have at the moment.”

Arsenal, who trail Liverpool by 13 points with just five matches to go, must avoid defeat to Palace or Arne Slot’s players will be crowned champions without even kicking a ball.

Should Arsenal see off Oliver Glasner’s side, then Liverpool will take the title if they beat Tottenham at Anfield on Sunday.