Arsenal are sitting top of the Premier League tree and they are now in the midst of a very busy, hectic, important and possibly defining festive period.
Mikel Arteta’s side did their job against Wolves on Sunday, then watched those around them, such as Manchester City, Aston Villa and Tottenham drop points.
As a result of it all, Arsenal are two points clear at the top, with captain Martin Odegaard leading the troops.
But some feel that Martin Odegaard hasn’t been at his best this season, with Ian Wright stating that teams are now ‘rightfully targeting’ him, as he told Premier League Productions (02/12/23 at 5:15 pm).
Against RC Lens in midweek, the £30 million signing (Sky Sports) got on the scoresheet and Thierry Henry did share his worries about the player.
Well, he has now scored in back-to-back matches to further boost his form and confidence, as the crucial Premier League games are now going to be swinging Arsenal’s way.
But whilst it’s usually Bukayo Saka who is on the end of heavy treatment from the opposition, a certain Martin Odegaard has probably now joined that list.
Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard targeted
“What has happened is that teams are rightly targeting Odegaard because of how good he is for us and how integral he is in passing through the lines and keeping it moving for us,” said Wright
“Teams are making sure they are getting someone close to him or doubling up on him. What he has shown, and he has shown it recently, is if he has time and space, then he will hurt you.”
Big week for Arsenal
On paper, Arsenal face two teams this week on both ends of the table.
On one hand, they face a Luton Town side battling relegation, as the London team will be expected to secure all three points.
And then it’s the trip to Villa Park on Saturday evening.
Villa themselves will host Manchester City in midweek, so there is every chance that by the time Arsenal come to town, Unai Emery’s side have won 14 Premier League games on the bounce at home.
And the last team to beat Villa in their own backyard? You guessed it right, that late Jorginho winner back in February.
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