Ian Wright says Arsenal really ‘need’ £30m star to step up to help Saka and co

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Arsenal legend Ian Wright wants to see more from Martin Odegaard.

Arsenal club captain Martin Odegaard has endured a mixed season so far.

He began the campaign in fine form, scoring four goals and providing one assist, across all competitions, before the end of September.

Since then, though, fitness issues and a loss of form have minimised his impact. The 24-year-old has been a largely ineffective presence in his last three Premier League outings, and missed games against Sheffield United, Newcastle United, and Burnley altogether, as Mikel Arteta admitted that he was struggling with some discomfort. 

Making his return to the staring line up against Brentford on Saturday evening, the Norwegian playmaker once again failed to fully impose himself on the match. The neat touches and clever passes that have come to define his game simply weren’t coming off.

Odegaard’s struggles make life harder for Bukayo Saka especially. The 22-year-old has admitted that he is being target by defenders this season. The Hale End academy graduate needs support and someone to combine with. Odegaard ought to be the ideal candidate for this role.

Odegaard and Saka have great chemistry on the pitch, and have often formed an effective duo on the right flank. With Odegaard short of his best, though, this relationship suffers and Saka has to do too much alone.

The likes of Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli, who seek to make runs in behind the opposition defence, would also benefit from Odegaard rediscovering his best form, as he would then be able to better pick out their movements. 

Martin Odegaard needed by Arsenal teammates

Ian Wright recognises the £30 million former Real Madrid man’s importance to this team. Speaking on the Wrighty’s House podcast, the former striker said, “we need Martin Odegaard’s form to come back. We need to make sure we can get the ball to Saka and Martinelli quickly so that they can do their stuff.”

At his best, Odegaard quickens the pace of Arsenal’s attacking play, directs the press effectively from the front, provides a goal threat, and is a tactical leader on the pitch. 

If Arsenal are to achieve their aims for this season, and mount a successful title push, then they will need Odegaard to start shining again soon. His teammates need him, as at his best, the 55-cap Norway international improves those around him.

Equally, with Odegaard struggling, now is the time for others in the squad to step up. With his sending off against Burnley, and his subsequent suspension, Fabio Vieira has squandered the chance to prove his worth in this period. Kai Havertz was able to take a huge step forward, though, with his match-winning goal against Brentford last time out.