Paul Merson names Arsenal 'difference maker' who is equal to Man City star Rodri

Today at 12:54 PM

Paul Merson has claimed ‘difference maker’ Martin Odegaard holds the same level of importance at Arsenal as Rodri does at Manchester City.

Rodri recently clinched the 2024 Ballon d’Or – which is awarded annually to the best player in world football – for his heroics with both City and Spain.

The Spanish midfielder was ruled out for the season in September after picking up a serious knee injury and many pundits have stated that City are not the same team when Rodri is unavailable.

Arsenal legend Merson feels it is a similar situation at Arsenal when they have been forced to play without their midfield captain Odegaard.

The Norwegian missed seven Premier League games in a row for Arsenal this term with an ankle issue – but played the last two matches – providing assists in the draw with Chelsea and win over Nottingham Forest.

Quizzed on Sky Sports if Arsenal were back to their best after a wobble, Merson said: ‘Yeah, the last two games.

‘They were outstanding against Nottingham Forest when they needed to be. They just dropped it down into second gear, but they were outstanding.

‘A brilliant performance against Sporting Lisbon. Martin Odegaard makes the difference.

‘We talk about Man City and Rodri. It’s the same with Odegaard. Odegaard makes things happen.

‘He knits it together for them. He brings the best out of Bukayo Saka as well – even more out of him – given he is already an amazing player.

‘Declan Rice, with Thomas Partey sitting in front of the back four, he can bomb on.

‘They’ve got four very, very good defenders. A good goalkeeper. They’re a good team – but they have got to stay fit. As long as they stay fit, Arsenal will be on a roll.’

The Gunners are next in action on Saturday with a trip to the London Stadium to face West Ham.