‘Perfect’ player now credited with breaking Arsenal ‘curse’ for one ‘striking’ reason

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James McNicholas and Adrian Clarke were absolutely blown away by one Arsenal star in the win over Porto.

Martin Odegaard was sensational for Arsenal in the Gunners’ Champions League triumph over Porto.

The Arsenal club captain led by example against the Portuguese outfit, as he always does. He pressed and harried opposition players relentlessly, as he scarcely stopped running throughout the ninety minutes or the period of extra-time that followed.

The Norwegian playmaker was equally influential on the ball. Odegaard was hailed as a “genius” for his brilliant assist for Leandro Trossard’s first half goal, which levelled up the round of 16 tie on aggregate. The 55-cap Norway international has racked up eight assists this season, and has also chipped in with nine goals. The data shows that Odegaard has been one of the most creative players in Europe this season.

Odegaard then also stepped up to take Arsenal’s first penalty in the shootout which was required to decide the tie. The 25-year-old finished confidently from the spot, setting the Gunners on their way to victory. 

Mikel Arteta is clearly hugely reliant on Odegaard. The former Real Madrid man is named in the starting XI week in, week out, and is very rarely substituted. He is a leader on the pitch, and can be counted upon to step up when his side need him.

The captain’s armband brings the best out of Odegaard, and it is clearly a role that he takes seriously. He put in a true captain’s performance against Porto.

Martin Odegaard hailed as perfect Arsenal captain

Journalists James McNicholas and Adrian Clarke have now had their say on the midfielder’s latest display. Speaking on the Handbrake Off podcast, McNicholas said, “he is, kind of, the perfect modern creative player, isn’t he? Because he has all the technique, he has all the imagination, but he allies that with such tremendous work rate and also, real tactical intelligence. To watch Odegaard is to get a lesson in the geometry of football.”

“Such a smart footballer, he’s like having a coach on the field in a way. Actually, it was really striking, there was one point in the first half where the players did come over and get some instruction from Arteta, but there was another moment where Odegaard called the players in and was speaking to them about what Arsenal needed to do differently…it’s impressive.”

Clarke then added, “Martin Odegaard has broken the captain’s curse, hasn’t he? He’s the perfect captain for us. We’ve had some, maybe, questionable choices down the years…it felt like a poisoned chalice.”

It is hugely important that Odegaard is able to remain fit and in good form for the remainder of the campaign. If Arsenal are to stand any chance of Champions League or Premier League glory this season, then they will need their skipper to continue firing on all cylinders.