An Arsenal player is being touted as a potential Footballer of the Year, edging out competition from Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice.
Undoubtedly, Arsenal have been a standout team in the Premier League this season, leading in both goals scored and fewest goals conceded. However, despite their stellar performance, they could find themselves finishing second.
Regardless of the outcome in the title race, several Arsenal players deserve acknowledgment for their performances this season. BBC pundit Garth Crooks has praised one of them in particular.
Garth Crooks Gives Reason Why Martin Odegaard Deserves Footballer of the Year Award
Martin Odegaard’s impact on Arsenal this season has been monumental.
A captivating footballer, the Norwegian international mesmerizes spectators with his fluid movements, adeptness in tight situations, and ability to craft opportunities for his teammates.
His statistics speak volumes: 11 goals and nine assists across all competitions.
Odegaard serves as the linchpin of Arsenal’s attacking prowess, orchestrating their forward movements with finesse. His influence is undeniable, a key factor in the Gunners’ contention for the title. Declan Rice, acknowledging his brilliance, lauded Odegaard as one of the finest players he’s ever seen.
While players like Bukayo Saka and Rice are formidable contenders for the Player of the Year accolade, BBC pundit Garth Crooks has hinted at Odegaard as his likely choice.
Crooks commended Odegaard’s stellar performance against Bournemouth and lauded his professionalism as a shining example to his peers.
Crooks wrote on BBC Sport: “The same team for the third consecutive game suggests Mikel Arteta has got nothing to lose by sticking his big guns in for the remainder.
“After all, Manchester City are in the driving seat with a game in hand and only one point behind. Arsenal look like they won’t be getting any favours from them.
“However, that background noise failed to stop Odegaard from producing another stellar performance against a hard done by Bournemouth side. Odegaard has had an exceptional season and is in my running for the Footballer of the Year award.
“He is a throwback to the days of old when the captain of the team wasn’t just one of the best players but also commanded respect, displayed a maturity, and conducted himself well. The Norway international possesses all of those qualities with loads to spare. A model professional if ever I saw one.”
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Martin Odegaard’s Stats This Season are Incredible
Some footballers often fail to receive due recognition due to their statistics, while others boast impressive numbers that may not accurately reflect their performance.
Martin Odegaard occupies a unique position in this regard.
The Norwegian consistently impresses visually, displaying remarkable skill each time he takes the field for Arsenal.
Furthermore, his statistical performance this season is noteworthy.
In 33 Premier League matches this season, Odegaard averages 70.3 touches per game and has created a total of 16 significant scoring opportunities – surpassing all other Arsenal players in this regard.
Priced at £30 million according to BBC, Odegaard also averages 2.8 key passes per game. Additionally, his defensive contributions are commendable, with an average of 4.6 ball recoveries per game – only marginally behind Declan Rice, who averages 4.8 per game according to SofaScore.
It is evident, as Crooks highlights, that Odegaard is deserving of recognition as the Footballer of the Year for his outstanding performances this season.