Crystal Palace FC v Fulham FC - Premier League - Source: Getty
Crystal Palace FC v Fulham FC - Premier League - Source: Getty
Emile Smith Rowe has hailed Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard and explained why he views him as the Premier League's best-attacking midfielder. The Fulham midfielder spent three years playing alongside the Norweigan at the Emirates.
Odegaard, 26, is one of the Gunners' most important players, as evidenced by their struggles when he was injured earlier this season. He's been in fine form, posting one goal and five assists in 13 games across competitions.
Smith Rowe, 24, was asked to name his favorite Premier League attacker, and he went with Odegaard over Kevin De Bruyne. He told Sky Sports:
"The best attacking midfielder in the Premier League is my ex-teammate Martin Odegaard. He's probably one of the best players I played with."
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He added:
"Obviously there's Kevin De Bruyne probably my favorite player in the league but seeing someone every day, seeing how they live, how they work day in, day out, and just how he performs every week is just crazy. One of the best I've been around."
Odegaard joined Arsenal from Real Madrid initially on loan before arriving permanently in the summer of 2021 for £30 million. He quickly became club captain amid stellar performances for Mikel Arteta's Gunners.
The Norway international has made 131 Premier League appearances, posting 32 goals and 25 assists. He is one of the first names on Arteta's teamsheet.
Mikel Arteta on Arsenal relying on Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka
Martin Odegaard isn't the only in-form Gunners star (Image - Getty)
Martin Odegaard isn't the only in-form Gunners star (Image - Getty)
Arsenal were expected to pounce on Manchester City's struggles this season and end a 20-year wait for league glory. They have failed to do so, sitting third in the league and trailing leaders Liverpool by six points after 16 games.
Odegaard missed seven games due to an ankle sprain, which proved costly. His team suffered a 2-0 loss to Bournemouth and a 1-0 defeat to Newcastle United.
The Norweigan has been sharing talismanic responsibilities with Bukayo Saka. The English winger has shone with nine goals and 13 assists in 23 games across competitions.
Arteta spoke glowingly of the attacking duo and their contributions at the Emirates. The Spaniard told reporters (via Arsenal's website):
"They are two of our best players, but we rely on the team. We rely on a lot of individuals, like any other team, to perform, to change games, to help us, to impact the team. Certainly, coming from the bench to have that impact they have, it’s really good to see."
Odegaard starred for the Gunners in a 3-2 win over Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup (December 18). They face Newcastle United in the semi-finals, with their captain hoping to win his first major trophy as a Gunners player.