Arsenal fans will love what Martin Odegaard just did in Arsenal’s clash with Villarreal

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Arsenal faced Villarreal at the Emirates Stadium in their first pre-season clash on home turf.

Mikel Arteta named a strong side with Viktor Gyokeres handed a first start since his £63m arrival from Sporting Lisbon.

The Gunners were sloppy defensively and allowed the visitors to race into a two goal lead with Nicolas Pepe on the scoresheet before Christian Norgaard pulled one back.

Villarreal then pulled further ahead in the second half on the counter attack before a penalty from Arsenal was no more than a consolation in a 3-2 defeat.

Martin Odegaard came on during the second half and having been the subject of criticism from supporters at the end of last season, his performance was of real interest.

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Martin Odegaard impresses for Arsenal despite defeat to Villarreal

Odegaard entered the field with the Gunners trailing 2-1 just after the hour mark and straight away looked bright and energetic.

The captain came in for criticism at the end of last season for hiding from responsibility and playing the simple pass too often, rather than looking to create dangerous moments for the opposition.

However, the Norwegian scored a penalty to get his team back in the game and in particular looked to feed his wingers Max Dowman and Noni Madueke in quality areas of the pitch.

Supporters will now be looking for Odegaard to continue this form into the new season, starting with the season opener at Old Trafford.

There is no doubt that a fit and firing Odegaard makes Arsenal a far more dangerous proposition and he is showing signs this pre-season that he is rediscovering his confidence.

Martin Odegaard could face a fight for his Arsenal place if Eberechi Eze signs

Arsenal are expected to bid for Eberechi Eze before the transfer window closes this summer and should a deal for the England international be completed, Odegaard may have a fight on his hands for a starting place.

The Gunners need more creativity in their attack and Eze had been mooted as a potential left wing option with the form of Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard under the spotlight.

However, Eze thrives in a more central position and could even come in to replace the Norwegian should early season performances not be up to the standard.

Ethan Nwaneri will also fancy his chances of securing a spot in the central number ten position, however, Odegaard will be desperate to prove doubters wrong.