Arsenal: The unsung hero vs Spurs who is only getting started

Martin Odegaard Will Improve in Every Aspect Over Time

Watching him and Thomas Partey in this Arsenal team and the centrality they bring makes it feel as if they’re the key conductors. While Smith Rowe and Saka are pivotal, there is a colourful stroke of Odegaard’s paintbrush in almost all facets.

His work off the ball is rightly heralded as well, bringing an infectious spirit and desire to the team with his relentless pressing and closing down. But it’s how he always picks up the right positions in moves, knows when to play the first time pass or hold the ball and delivers it with such elegant weight that stands out.

All of this at just 22 years of age. And, for £30m. There is no planet where that isn’t a magnificent deal.

With his time at the club there will be continued growth. There is still one qualm with Odegaard in that he can be guilty of drifting out of matches where Arsenal aren’t in control of possession, something that leans heavily on his skillset, even if during those periods he continues to run himself into the ground.

But all of his finer, and less fine, traits will be developed as the months go by. Physically he can be stronger and there is room to be more flexible with his right foot, some of which may come and some that might not. What there is now, though, is an absolute gem of a player who leaves a positive impact on all those around him in the Premier League and elsewhere, lets their finer qualities sing and leads by voice and example.

A superb signing who will grow with this team alongside his fellow young stars.