William Gallas praises ‘maestro’ Arsenal captain after incredible display vs Brighton
|Former Arsenal captain William Gallas has heaped praise on Martin Odegaard following his fantastic performance against Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League last weekend.
The Gunners returned to winning ways on Sunday with a convincing 2-0 win over the Seagulls at the Emirates Stadium.
Odegaard did not make a direct goal contribution, but he was brilliant in the build-up play and had a big role in the result.
The Norwegian star had a passing accuracy of 93 per cent with key four passes.
The Gunners skipper also won four dribbles and was denied a splendid counter-attacking goal after a brilliant save from goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.
In an interview with French outlet Gentside, Gallas was full of praise for the 25-year-old and said that he is a maestro midfielder, who can change games.
The former Premier League defender added that he was incredible and amazing to watch versus Brighton, but he just needs to be more consistent.
He said: “When you have a player like Martin Ødegaard, who, for me, is a maestro midfielder and a player who can change games, it’s easier. Against Brighton, he was amazing to watch.”
“He was incredible. I just want him to be more consistent. If he is until the end of the season, the team will cause problems to their opponents in big games. Artea has brought this desire to the group. Players are fighting for each other.”
Odegaard recapturing his best form at Arsenal
Odegaard was hugely influential in the Gunners’ title pursuit last season. He registered 15 goals and eight assists from 37 league appearances.
He has yet to find the same consistency this term, but has still contributed four goals and three assists from 15 top-flight outings for the club.
The Norwegian was struggling with a hip issue earlier this campaign, but he seems to have recovered completely since the last international break.
Odegaard looks to be recapturing his form, but still has room for improvement with his finishing. He had two clear-cut chances to score at Aston Villa.
Arsenal fans will be hoping that their captain continues his bright form when the club visit Anfield to face Liverpool on Saturday. A victory would be a huge statement.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com