Martin Odegaard has continued his fine start to the season with another superb performance for Arsenal in their 2-1 win against Chelsea. The midfielder once again showed what he can produce when he is free from the injury problems that disrupted his campaign last season.
Odegaard suffered from a serious injury curse last term, forcing him to miss many matches. Even when he was available for the Gunners, he was often not fully fit, limiting his ability to perform at his best and contribute consistently to the team.
Odegaard enjoying injury-free run
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Mikel Arteta was keen for Odegaard to return to his best physical level, but that did not happen until he went to the World Cup and performed well for Norway. That experience appeared to provide an important turning point for the midfielder.
Since returning for the new season, Odegaard has looked in fantastic form and appears ready to enjoy arguably the best period of his career as a player. Arsenal will be delighted to see their captain performing at such a high level after the difficulties he experienced last season.
His display against Chelsea was another example of what he can offer when he is fit and confident. The midfielder impressed Ashley Young, who praised his performance during the match.
Young said via [the BBC](https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/live/cx4gq9q7y6jet#LiveReporting)
“When you’ve got a player like Martin Odegaard on the team, he’s just a joy to watch. He’s exciting when he gets on the ball, he’s allowing other players to get on the ball, and the connection down the right side between him, Saka and Havertz, it’s just good to see when you’ve got players that know each other and build relationships in that way.”
Arsenal benefiting from Odegaard
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Young’s comments highlight the influence Odegaard has on Arsenal’s attacking play. His ability to get involved on the ball while helping other players become more effective makes him an important part of the Gunners’ team.
Arsenal will hope his excellent form continues throughout the campaign. If Odegaard can remain injury-free and maintain his current level, the midfielder could enjoy one of the strongest seasons of his career.