Ex-Chelsea star Pat Nevin claims that Martin Odegaard, Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard are not as good as many people think.
The trio have been key to Arsenal's excellent form over the last 12 months for Mikel Arteta. They all played a key role as the Gunners challenged Manchester City for the Premier League title.
Odegaard netted 15 league goals last term as captain, Martinelli plundering the same amount. Trossard has also proven to be an astute signing after a series of key contributions.
The former Brighton winger has seven goals and 12 assists in just 20 starts for the North London club. However, Nevin is not particularly on board and does not believe any of the trio are among the Premier League’s best. Speaking on Off The Ball, he said: “Can I be honest with you? I do look at them and I’m not so sure.
“I look at Martinelli and I think there are some good bits, but not phenomenal, Trossard, yeah he’s good, but he’s not phenomenal, I’ve watched Odegaard be unbelievable and completely anonymous.”
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Martinelli responded perfectly to Nevin’s claims during Arsenal’s trip to take on Luton at Kenilworth Road on Tuesday evening. The Brazilian winger opened the scoring in the 4-3 win over the Hatters by stabbing home Bukayo Saka's cross.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta had previously explained his drop-off in form after the weekend victory over Wolves. He said: "No I think he’s been unlucky in certain moments. Today he had two big chances as well. The contribution he has in the team is immense. I’m really happy for him."
Gabriel Martinelli opened the scoring for Arsenal against Luton (Getty Images)What do you think about Pat Nevin's comments? Share your thoughts in the comments below
While Martinelli’s goal had put the Gunners ahead vs Luton, they were not in the lead for very long as Gabriel Osho equalised for Luton before Gabriel Jesus restored Arsenal’s advantage before the break. The hosts managed to flip the game on its head through Elijah Adebayo and Ross Barkley, with Kai Havertz equalising on the hour mark.
Declan Rice eventually headed home in the closing moments. Arsenal now face another tough away trip to face Unai Emery's Aston Villa in the West Midlands. It is a game that Odegaard will be hoping to have a contribution.
The Norwegian has scored just four Premier League goals this season but Ian Wright believes that is down to the rough treatment he receives from the opposition. He said: “What has happened is that teams are rightly targeting Odegaard because of how good he is for us and how integral he is in passing through the lines and keeping it moving for us.
“Teams are making sure they are getting someone close to him or doubling up on him. What he has shown, and he has shown it recently, is if he has time and space, then he will hurt you."
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