A section of Arsenal fans have praised Martin Odegaard for his impressive display in the 0-0 draw against Burnley on Sunday.
After disappointing exits from the FA Cup and EFL Cup, the Gunners were hoping to get back to winning ways against The Clarets in the Premier League. It was the perfect opportunity for the hosts to leapfrog into the top four by securing all three points.
The visitors got off to a good start and restricted Arsenal from creating any clear-cut chances in the first half. Despite Burnley’s solid defensive shape, Bukayo Saka came close to breaking the deadlock with an excellent curling effort just before the stroke of halftime.
The north Londoners continued to pile up the pressure, but they didn’t possess the creativity to open up the visitor’s defense. Probably the best chance of the game fell to Alexandre Lacazette, but he failed to capitalize on a brilliant opportunity created by Emile Smith Rowe. The contest ended in a goalless draw, which leaves them in sixth place on the table.
The Gunners were far from their best throughout the game, but Martin Odegaard showcased his quality yet again. He looked threatening with his passing and looked lively when he had the ball. In the absence of a natural defensive midfielder, Arteta had to deploy the youngster in a much deeper position than usual.
According to Whoscored, the Norwegian completed three key passes and as many tackles. He almost secured the victory for his team with an excellent freekick that just landed on top of Nick Pope’s goal.
Some Arsenal fans believe Odegaard was the best player on the pitch. They were full of praise for the midfielder. Here are some of the best reactions from Twitter:
I just want to say:
Martin Odegaard is an exceptional player
— Clive (@clivepafc) January 20, 2022
Odegaard is a proper leader
— Renato (@rehnato) January 23, 2022
Odegaard has 3 key passes already playing in that deep pívot, what a player we have on our hands
— Oliver Tudge🃏 (@olivertudge1) January 23, 2022
Odegaard is actually an incredible player man.
Crazy to think he’s only just turned 23🤯 only way is up.
— Afc things (@Gunner2Jasper) January 23, 2022
We better not waste Martin Ødegaard, like we wasted Mesut Øzil in his prime years.
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) January 23, 2022
Odegaard actually playing at a high intensity level. Defending properly and probing going forward. I like what I’m seeing from him these days.
— AFCZafar (@AfcZafar) January 23, 2022
Arsenal Fever View:
The Emirates club have a huge week ahead of them in terms of recruiting players and bolstering their squad. With several players sidelined due to injuries and suspensions, the squad has become depleted. The lack of options in certain areas of the pitch is really worrying.
Arsenal are still within touching distance of Champions League spots. They are just two points behind the fourth placed Manchester United with a game in hand. If they want to be serious contenders for the coveted European spot, it’s high time for them to invest.
Read More: Arsenal still in the race to sign Dusan Vlahovic, reveals David Ornstein
