Arsenal have another player performing just as well as Martin Odegaard and it’s going completely under the radar

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With Martin Odegaard in the side, Arsenal remain unbeaten this season – the Norwegian was injured during all three of their defeats to date.

Odegaard’s ankle injury ruled him out when Arsenal lost to Bournemouth and Newcastle United, and he wasn’t able to start against Inter Milan, three close-run defeats he could have certainly impacted.

Against Nottingham Forest and Sporting CP in particular, Odegaard has inspired Arsenal – he’s raised the level of his teammates around him.

Mikel Arteta missed the midfielder’s leadership just as much as his authority on the ball, a player the Gunners simply can’t afford to lose to injury again in the near future.

That being said, it’s not just Odegaard who’s shone since the international break.

Jurrien Timber has been just as good as Martin Odegaard for Arsenal

Bukayo Saka is another obvious name to mention, a player who also defines everything good about Arsenal in the modern era.

But perhaps Jurrien Timber isn’t quite getting all of the plaudits he deserves right now.

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Timber was brilliant against Sporting CP, just as he was against Forest at the Emirates Stadium.

Timber was hailed for a rare attribute he displayed last weekend, but it’s his attacking talent that is increasingly catching the eye.

The Dutchman provided an outstanding assist for Gabriel Martinelli’s opening goal, and simply seems to be everywhere on the pitch.

Arsenal paid £34m to sign Timber in 2023, and it now feels as if Arteta is finally enjoying the excellent talent he knew he had recruited in the first place, before his unfortunate injury.

Ben White might struggle to win his starting position back

Able to excel on the left or the right, Timber looks well-equipped to deputise for Ben White whilst he’s recovering from his recent surgery.

In fact, the defender may even make it difficult for White to return to the starting eleven immediately, at least that’s judging by his numbers against Sporting CP.

According to Sofascore, Timber made three key passes, had 84 touches and dribbled past two opponents – an authoritative performance.

The Dutchman was also efficient at the back too, winning four duels and making two important interceptions.

A brilliant talent, and someone who Arsenal desperately need to stay fit, just like their captain, Odegaard.