Chris Sutton has suggested on BBC Radio 5 Live (9:27pm, October 18, 2021) that Arsenal attacking midfielder Martin Odegaard is not physically very strong.
Sutton made the comments while watching Odegaard in action for Arsenal against Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium last night.
The former Chelsea striker was on co-commentary duty for the London derby for BBC Radio 5 Live.
Sutton said about Odegaard: “He is a good technician, isn’t he? That’s what he is. Physically does he, out of possession, does he have the legs to get up to people? I am not so sure. He is a nice footballer, that’s what he is.”
Martin Odegaard is just fine
Yes, if you look at Odegaard, he does not look the most imposing of figures.
But neither did Xavi or Andres Iniesta.
And look at the careers they have had.
In our view, Odegaard is just fine physically.
Now, of course, all footballers will want to be physically strong, but not everyone can have the physique of Adama Traore of Wolverhampton Wanderers.
However, we have to say that Odegaard needs to do better and be more consistent in terms of creativity.
The 22-year-old – who cost Arsenal £30 million in transfer fee in the summer transfer window, according to Sky Sports – did not have a particular good game against Palace.
Odegaard has scored one goal in six Premier League appearances for Arsenal so far this season.
The Arsenal no. 8 has not provided an assist or created a big chance.
In our view, that is not good enough.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
