This archive report was first published on 21 September 2021.
September 21, 2021 - Mikel Arteta has hailed Martin Odegaard's leadership qualities after the Norway midfielder played a crucial role in Arsenal's recovery from a poor start to their Premier League campaign.
Odegaard's impressive form has been a key factor in Arsenal's back-to-back wins, including a 1-0 victory over Burnley last weekend, where his pin-point free-kick sealed the win.
Arteta praised Odegaard's leadership qualities, saying: 'We are building some leadership in the group. Martin has this capacity to do that with his talent, taking the ball where others probably refuse to, but as well with his attitude, rhythm and the way he presses.'
Arteta also credited Odegaard with leading by example, saying: 'He is probably the first to do it. It was a real commitment and purpose. You can tell when you are really doing it or when you've been told to do it. There was a big meaning behind it.'
Arteta is under pressure to deliver after Arsenal finished a disappointing eighth in the Premier League in 2020/21 and endured their worst start to a league campaign in 67 years this season.
