Arsenal were recently handed an invaluable boost as captain Martin Odegaard returned to first-team action after nearly two months out nursing an ankle injury. The Norwegian’s return has particularly benefitted Bukayo Saka as the pair man the right flank in the Gunners’ tactical setup.
Since Ødegaard’s return, Saka has contributed to seven goals (four assists and three goals) in just three appearances, owing to the work the former puts in to help the latter maximize his impact. Speaking to Viaplay Football, Martin Ødegaard shared insights about their on-field partnership. He said,
“I don’t want to reveal all our tactics, but I think my main role is to make sure Saka is in the best position. Everybody can see what he’s good at, so we have to try to get him on the ball for the attack. Whether it’s one-on-one or running in-behind, it’s key.
“It’s about how we work together. If I’m at the back, he’s usually a little up front. If I am ahead, he drops back. Sometimes I will pull wide and he will go inward. So, that’s the interaction between us.
Odegaard then heaped praise on Saka, calling it a ‘dream’ to have a teammate like him. He added,
“As a midfielder, having teammates like that is a dream. If I’m in trouble, I just pass the ball to him – he can be a threat wherever he is.”
Odegaard and Saka have played together for 147 games and only Gabriel Magalhaes (147) has the same number of appearances with the Norwegian. Now, both will aim to stay fit.
Odegaard and Saka key to Arsenal’s title chances
Due to injury, Martin Odegaard has made just eight appearances for Arsenal so far this season. In those games, he has scored one goal and provided three assists as he pulls the strings from midfield. Now, having returned to full fitness, the Norwegian will look to make a more consistent impact.
In his absence, however, Bukayo Saka stepped up in dominant fashion. The winger has made 18 appearances across competitions, netting seven times and providing 11 assists. Should both players perform at a high level, the Gunners will have a strong chance of contending for the Premier League title come May.
