Martin Odegaard is ‘one of the best’ in the world in four areas, according to Mikel Arteta

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Arsenal’s victory over Nottingham Forest was an enjoyable one, not least because it truly marked the return of Martin Odegaard.

The Arsenal captain was absent for over two months after picking up an injury whilst playing for Norway in September, and he made his first start against Chelsea just before the International break.

Odegaard appeared at the Emirates for the first time since August against Nottingham Forest, and he put in a truly outstanding display.

The Norweigan linked well with Bukayo Saka, and Odegaard assisted the winger’s opening goal.

Mikel Arteta has now heaped praise on his captain, and hailed him as one of the best in the world in his position.

• READ MORE: A timeline of every Arsenal captain during the Premier League era from Tony Adams to Martin Odegaard

Mikel Arteta hails Arsenal star Martin Odegaard as one of ‘the best’ players

Speaking after the victory over Nottingham Forest, Arteta highlighted Odegaard’s special qualities as one of the best creative midfielders in the world.

“We talk about fluidity, understanding, chemistry, timing. He is one of the best at that,” Arteta stated of Odegaard.

“When he is in the team, you can sense something is different.”

Odegaard’s return helped transform Arsenal’s attacking fortunes, with the Gunners recording their biggest victory of the season against Nuno Espirito Santo’s side.

Martin Odegaard’s stats in Arsenal vs Nottingham Forest

Odegaard instantly impressed with his close control and exquisite weight of pass on full display, and his display was also incredibly effective in the final third.

In the 82 minutes Odegaard played, he created more chances than anyone else, assisted Saka’s opening goal, and dictated the game with 12 passes into the final third.

Odegaard has been a huge miss in the last few months, with Arsenal struggling to create chances without him, but it was a totally different story against Nottingham Forest.

If Arsenal are to stand any chance in the Premier League title race, they will need Odegaard to stay fit for the rest of the season, with it now clear just how important he is for Arteta.