"Our player of the season" - Ian Wright in awe of 'unbelievable' Arsenal star after 3-1 Chelsea win
Arsenal legend Ian Wright has showered praise on Gunners captain Martin Odegaard following the 3-1 Pemier League win over Chelsea on Tuesday (May 2), dubbing him the team’s best performer this season.
Mikel Arteta’s side snapped a four-game winless run in the process. Odegaard struck in the 18th and 31st minutes while Gabriel Jesus bagged another in the 34th minute to give the hosts a three-goal cushion. Noni Madueke netted Chelsea’s consolation strike in the 65th minute.
Wright, who won five trophies with Arsenal, including the 1997-98 Premier League, heaped praise on Odegaard afterr the win, admitting that he was surprised when Real Madrid let him go. He told Premier League Productions (via HITC):
“I couldn’t believe we got him on loan from Real Madrid in the first place and then when he came back. His pedigree, what he is capable of and his ability. The fact that he is captain now – leading by example and chipping in with that many goals. He has been unbelievable.”
The former attacker continued:
“I think he has been our player of the season, if I am totally honest. William Saliba was on that track. But he has been injured. Odegaard’s consistency for Arsenal this season has been absolutely tremendous for us.”
The Norwegian playmaker initially joined Arsenal on loan from Real Madrid in the January transfer window in 2021. That summer, the north Londoners signed the 24-year-old permanently for £34 million.
Odegaard, who was named captain at the start of the ongoing season, has led his team by example. He has played 41 games this season across competitions, scoring 14 times and providing eight assists.
Oleksandr Zinchenko lauds Arsenal star Martin Odegaard after stellar display in Chelsea win
Arsenal left-back Oleksandr Zinchenko was all praise for Martin Odegaard after the 3-1 win over Chelsea as the former Manchester City man noted Odegaard's exploits this season.
– Martin har levert en fantastisk sesong og er en briljant spiller, sier Oleksandr Zinchenko til @ToldnesG etter seieren mot Chelsea, hvor Martin Ødegaard scoret to ganger. https://t.co/iGBa63kAVK
Speaking to Viaplay Fotball, Zinchenko said:
“It’s an incredible season for him. He’s an incredible player. He’s our leader and so important for us on and off the pitch. I’m so happy for him, and I hope he’s going to do even better and will score even more.”
Odegaard’s opener in the 18th minute came from a stunning volley. Granit Xhaka picked him out with a cross on the edge of the box, with the playmaker hitting on the volley to score off the underside of the bar.
The pair hurt Chelsea again 13 minutes later, with Xhaka zipping a low cross into the box, which Odegaard guided home with a deft touch.