Mikel Arteta has been full of praise for Martin Odegaard and Viktor Gyökeres after their amazing displays in Arsenal’s dramatic late win over Newcastle United at St James’ Park. The result gave the Gunners a big boost in the Premier League title race, and attention now turns to Wednesday’s Champions League clash against Olympiacos, with both players firmly in contention to start on the night, Softfootball reports.
Odegaard, who started the Newcastle on the bench after just returning back to from injury, was brought on in the second half with Arsenal trailing. His immediate impact and composure under pressure helped swing the momentum Arsenal’s way , as they rallied late in a dramatic way to steal all three points.
Speaking to at the UCL pre match presser via the team’s official website, Arteta was keen to highlight his captain’s mentality and sharp decision-making at a crucial moment he said:
He was very good, he came on and immediately you could see the desire and the responsibility to get in the game, to try to change it. His decision making, the way he approached every ball, made a difference to help us win the game.
While Odegaard delivered with his leadership and creativity, Arteta was equally delighted with the resilience of Viktor Gyökeres. Leading the line against a typically physical Newcastle defence, the Swedish striker faced a barrage of aerial duels and close marking.Yet his ability to absorb the pressure and still create danger in the final third earned special recognition from the manager, Arteta stated;
I loved it. I absolutely loved how he took it. He went on board, not a single moment when he’s showing frustration. I told him, you’re going to get some decisions, some others not, stand up. You’re going to have two or three players around you in many moments, the ball is in the air and a lot is going to happen. But I loved his reaction, I loved the way he handled the situation emotionally, and as well because he was involved in a lot of dangerous moments that he created.
With Kai Havertz sidelined with a long term injury, Gyökeres has stepped up to in leading Arsenal’s frontline in recent weeks, a responsibility he has embraced with maturity and confidence. Arteta described his adaptation to life in the Premier League as seamless, stressing that his attitude and determination make him a perfect fit for the team’s long-term goals, he said;
In a really natural, organic way, I would say. He’s a really confident boy. His work ethic is incredible. “The demands that he puts in himself every single day, it’s a joy to work with him. He gives so much to the team and the ceiling is very, very far but he can still give to the team, so I’m very happy with him.
Arsenal will prepare to host Olympiacos to the Emirates on Wednesday night, both Odegaard and Gyökeres will once again be key to Arteta’s plans. The Norwegian’s ability to control tempo and dictate from the midfield will be very crucial, alongside the Swede’s growing presence as a focal point up front, will be vital as the Gunners look to build on their strong start in Europe.
