Arsenal star Saka explains why he ‘loves’ Odegaard captaincy style

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Bukayo Saka has discussed the importance of Arsenal club captain Martin Odegaard.

Arsenal recently handed Martin Odegaard a new long-term contract, rewarding him for his excellent form. Bukayo Saka has now given his verdict on the Gunners’ skipper.

Odegaard’s influence at the Emirates Stadium cannot be underestimated. The 24-year-old is an exemplary leader, and is essentially Mikel Arteta’s voice on the pitch. The midfielder is constantly directing and instructing his teammates to ensure the manager’s tactical vision is being realised.

Despite his relative youth, the £30 million star is vastly experienced and able to raise his game in big moments. Already this season he has stepped up when the team has needed him, not least with his equalising goal against Manchester United, or by scoring the winning goal from the penalty spot against Crystal Palace.

He will have another chance to shine for Arsenal on a big occasion this afternoon when Tottenham Hotspur come to the Emirates Stadium to contest the north London derby. Odegaard has the capacity to take this game by the scruff of the neck and have a defining influence on how it plays out.

Odegaard and Saka are the future for Arsenal

Saka has flourished on the pitch alongside Odegaard. The pair have struck up a brilliant connection, often linking up to devastating effect on the right flank.

The 22-year-old England ace has now heaped praise on his club captain. As quoted by The Mirror, he said, “he’s really important, not just as a player, as a leader as well. He leads in a different way, but I love it and respect it. We all know he’s got unbelievable quality, creating goals and scoring goals and being the captain that we all love. I don’t mind being stuck with him! I’m happy for him and he deserves the new contract.”

Arteta will be delighted to see the esteem that Odegaard is held in by the rest of the Arsenal squad. A sense of unity and harmony amongst his players is something the Spanish coach values very highly.

Saka and Odegaard are two of the Gunners’ most talismanic figures. To have them both tied down to long-term contracts, happy, and performing brilliantly on the pitch is a major boost for the north London club.