Lucas Perez squad number: Arsenal new boy takes tainted no.9 while Shkodran Mustafi is given far less prestigious jersey

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Arsenal this afternoon announced on Twitter that their Lucas Perez squad number for the 2016-17 season will be no.9.

SEE MORE: (Photo) Arsenal announce fifth summer signing and Lucas Perez doesn’t seem too happy about it

Nine is traditionally the number worn by a team’s best striker, so the Gunners presumably have a lot of faith in their new frontman.

However, Arsenal’s no.9s during the Premier League era have largely failed to do the jersey justice.

The list of Arsenal no.9s in the 21st century is far from inspiring, but pre-2000 the Gunners were much luckier, with club legends like Alan Smith and Paul Merson in possession.

Perez is not the only new Gunners signing to get a squad number today.

Fellow recent arrival Shkodran Mustafi has been given no.20 following his move from Valencia.

Arsenal last seven no.20s have been Johan Djourou, Mathieu Flamini, Matthew Upson, Guillaume Warmuz, Philippe Senderos, Pal Lydersen and Chris Kiwomya.

No pressure then. No, really!

More Stories Chris Kiwomya Guillaume Warmuz Johan Djourou Lucas Perez Mathieu Flamini matthew upson Pal Lydersen philippe senderos Shkodran Mustafi