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Nedum Onuoha says Mikel Arteta relies way too much on two Arsenal players

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Arsenal have assembled a squad that they hope is deep enough to compete on all four trophy fronts this season.

Andrea Berta has had a busy first summer at the Emirates with eight new signings coming through the door.

Viktor Gyokeres and Eberechi Eze were the most eye-catching deals that were completed by the club as they look to add firepower and a clinical edge to their attack.

However, after a disappointing 1-0 defeat at Anfield, former Manchester City defender Nedum Onuoha has claimed that Mikel Arteta is still over-reliant on two Arsenal stars.

READ MORE: Jamie Carragher says Arsenal have a problem with Kai Havertz that will ‘never’ change

Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard in action during Arsenal v Leeds United in the Premier League clash.
Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images

Nedum Onuoha says Arsenal are too reliant on Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard

Speaking on the latest episode of ‘The Ripple Effect’ podcast, Onuoha has claimed that the Gunners are still too reliant on the duo of Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard.

Saka has been ruled out for up to a month and missed the defeat at Anfield with a hamstring injury, whilst Odegaard was only fit enough for an appearance from the bench after a knock on his shoulder.

Onuoha stated: “They’re still built around certain players being available for most of the season who haven’t been replaced.

“So, you think, for example if Odegaard and Saka were out for two months do you think you still get a good enough version of Arsenal to win all of those games, because I don’t?”

Kevin Nolan was impressed with Odegaard when he came on for the last twenty minutes against Liverpool and there was no doubt Arsenal looked brighter with their captain.

However, Arteta will be hoping that once his new signings settle in, the Gunners will be able to cope with any injury absences they incur throughout the season.

Noni Madueke showed he can step up in Bukayo Saka’s absence for Arsenal

One of the few highlights for Arsenal in that defeat to Liverpool was the performance of Noni Madueke on the right flank.

The England international was the side’s biggest threat, especially in the first half as he showed his electric pace and directness.

Liverpool v Arsenal match statisticsNoni Madueke
Minutes played89
Touches29
Shots on target1
Dribble success rate100%
Passing accuracy56%
Noni Madueke’s match statistics v Liverpool via Sofascore

Arsenal fans were impressed with Madueke and his versatility to play either on the left or right wing could prove vital this season.

To win a league title, Arteta will need every member of the squad to step up and have their moments within the campaign, not just Saka and Odegaard.