Martin Odegaard offered thoughts on the leadership of David Raya at Arsenal.
The Gunners have got eight clean sheets in twelve Champions League fixtures, and their defensive discipline is the quality that has taken the team into a competitive state against the European elite.
‘He’s really grown’
The man who is the last line of defence is David Raya, who repelled **Sporting**several times in the first leg in Lisbon, and helped secure a second shutout against the Portuguese side at the Emirates Stadium. Before the game, the club captain commented on the impact he is having for the team.
“David Raya* made some great saves that night, and he’s definitely up there with the very best in the world for me. He’s been consistent for a long time now; last season and this he’s been unbelievable. He’s so important for us and it’s great to have a character like him at the back for us as well.*
“He’s a leader in the dressing room. He talks a lot and takes responsibility for the team. He helps a lot in terms of being a big part of the leadership group. He’s a great character to have around.
“Everyone can see his quality on the pitch but also off the pitch, he brings a lot to the team and to the group. He’s really grown in that role and stature since he arrived here. Massive credit to him for that.
“When you look at our team, there are a lot of different leaders, and David is someone who does a lot of work behind the scenes. He talks a lot and he really cares about people and getting the best out of everyone. Maybe supporters wouldn’t realise that as much when you see him play because he’s always at the back of the pitch, but he’s a really big part of the group and a really strong leader.”