Andy Townsend told Premier League Productions that Arsenal already have a ‘better’ version of Martin Odegaard in Emile Smith Rowe.
Both players started Arsenal’s 4-2 win over Leeds on Sunday, as the previously creative-shy Gunners had speed, movement and magic to their play.
When Mesut Ozil departed Arsenal last month, those in the North London boardroom didn’t hesitate in pushing to bring in Odegaard from Real Madrid on-loan.
But former Aston Villa and Republic of Ireland defender Townsend stated whilst ‘a lot’ has been said about Odegaard’s talents, he’s not better than Arsenal’s academy product.
“No, you cannot (drop Smith Rowe),” said Townsend. “Odegaard is clearly a precocious talent and there has been a lot said about that young man already.
“But I think, and it’s so early days with Odegaard, but when I look at Smith Rowe I think they have a better one there already. I really do.
“I think that young man is so good. He has got great awareness. He is a Paul Scholes in the making. He can play as a ten. He showed today he can play off one side and come inside.
“He just has that fantastic ability and awareness of what’s going on around him and behind him. Not all young players have that.”
When Odegaard swapped Madrid for North London, some did question whether both the new signing and Smith Rowe could play in the same team.
Well, those potential worries were answered yesterday because, with so many technical and forward-thinking players in the XI, Arsenal looked a different beast.
Now, it’s a case of continuing those types of performances and ensuring that the fans get the vibes that they are seeing a bit of the Arsenal side’s of old heading into the future.
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