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Mikel Arteta has hailed Martin Odegaard’s ‘terrific’ performance in Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Leicester City on Sunday.
Thomas Partey gave the Gunners an early lead at the Emirates Stadium before Aaron Ramsdale pulled off a brilliant save to deny Harvey Barnes. Arteta’s side then doubled their advantage in the second half through Alexandre Lacazette’s penalty.
Odegaard, meanwhile, delivered another impressive display at the heart of Arsenal’s midfield.
The Norway international, who was signed permanently from Real Madrid for £30 million last summer, has been a key figure for the Gunners over the last few months.
And Arteta believes the 23-year-old has ‘come a long way’ this season.
‘He was terrific again today in every aspect of the game,’ Arteta said after the game.
‘What he had to do in defending, when we were high, when we were deep, in build-up phases, in the final third, the way he understands and manages the game when needed.
‘I think he’s come a long way since his arrival, he’s showing great maturity and responsibility on the pitch and he makes the other players better I think.’
Asked if Arsenal have found a bargain in Odegaard, Arteta replied: I don’t know, it’s still a little bit early to say that.
‘But we were certainly convinced that a player that could fit in our club, in our model, that he has every value that we want from the players to represent this club and then he has the qualities for what we want to do and we are really happy with him.’
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Source: Metro Sport
