Martin Odegaard helped Arsenal take the lead against Nottingham Forest. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Arsenal went into the half-time break in their Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest with a 1-0 lead thanks to a brilliant goal from Bukayo Saka, but in the build-up, Martin Odegaard showed his worth in Mikel Arteta’s team.
It has been a mixed start to the campaign for the north London club as cup competitions have gone well for the Gunners, however, with Arsenal entering week 12 nine points behind the Premier League leaders, the Liverpool, and were left with a lot of work to do if they are to win the title.
The win against Nottingham Forest was imperative and the first 45 minutes for Arteta’s side were very positive as they went into the break 1-0 up. Saka opened the scoring with a beautiful goal when the winger fired the ball into the away goal.
There was a good build-up before the England star got his attack going and the fluidity shown could be down to Odegaard’s return.
The Norwegian played a vital role in breaking the deadlock:that an expert predicted before the match– getting a shot out of Forest’s box before finally helping Saka to score his goal.
BRILLIANT Bukayo Saka finish to put Arsenal in front!
? Peacock | #ARSNFO pic.twitter.com/p9fdQTroSs
— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) November 23, 2024
Martin Odegaard’s return is crucial to Arsenal’s success
Odegaard has been a crucial part of Arsenal’s current squad from his Arrival of £34m of Real Madrid in 2021.
That was never more evident than at the start of this season, with the midfielder missing a large chunk of the campaign with an ankle injury. The Norway international was out for seven league games before his return against Chelsea before the international break and his performance so far against Nottingham Forest has highlighted his importance.
The Gunners need to keep their captain fit if they are to be successful this season, as the difference the 25-year-old is making in north London has proven to be quite a big one.
