Brentford manager Keith Andrews has praised Martin Odegaard for the influence he exerted after coming off the bench to alter the dynamic of Arsenal’s performance. The Norwegian began the match among the substitutes, with Eberechi Eze selected in the attacking midfield role. However, Eze struggled to impose himself on proceedings and was replaced at halftime by the Arsenal captain.
Odegaard’s introduction brought an immediate shift in tempo and intensity. His leadership and organisation were evident, particularly in the way he coordinated Arsenal’s pressing structure against Brentford. The visitors eventually found the breakthrough, although Brentford responded with an equaliser to secure a share of the spoils.
Tactical Impact Recognised
Andrews acknowledged that Odegaard’s contribution extended beyond visible attacking intent. The Norway international demonstrated acute awareness in his pressing triggers, unsettling Brentford’s build-up play and forcing adjustments in their approach. His timing, positioning and angles of movement disrupted passing lanes and applied sustained pressure on the opposition defence.
The midfielder’s capacity to influence matches in subtle yet decisive ways continues to underline his importance. His performance served as a reminder of the qualities that make him a central figure within the Arsenal side.
Praise from the Opposition
Speaking after the match, Andrews expressed both satisfaction at earning a point and admiration for Odegaard’s technical discipline. As reported by Sky Sports, he said, “Odegaard is a very good presser, when he releases from No 10 out to centre-backs he times it really well, and the angle he goes is very effective. He’s very good at it.
“They do it in different ways when he doesn’t play.
“I always expected a reaction [when Odegaard came on].”
His remarks highlight the respect Odegaard commands from opponents and reinforce the significance of his presence in high-intensity encounters.
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I must have missed that .
Nope, you got it.
Odegaard praised for his pressing, but little mention of his impact offensively; dribbling too much and passing backwards/sideways only takes you so far.
This is what makes me laugh. People make such a big thing about him running about a lot, and that he’s good at the press. All very good, but I’m always hearing he’s our most creative player. If that’s the case then we’re in trouble.
He slows the play down more often than not, his goals scoring return is beyond a joke. And this creative genius has barley got an assist to his name in the last three seasons.
Now maybe I’ve been spoiled over the years, with the likes of Samson, Adams, Viera, Henry as our captains.
But don’t tell me that Odegaard deserves to be captain. Whether the captain is a speaker, or leads by example. Odegaard does neither, and is certainly not my idea of a club captain.
And the proof is his constant low level performances.
You seem to be obsessed with captaincy.which is not an issue here.You will never understand as long you have that negative towards him.
Labour Ngwabi,
Of course the captaincy is an issue. Maybe not with you or some others, but it is with some.
And as for you’re quote regarding negative, what’s to get positive about regards Odegaard’s constant low level performance’s.
Did arsenal look threatening prior to odegards arrival? You need to understand the nuances of the game and how control is exerted.
Andrew,
I know the nuances of the game. And I know the nuances of Odegaard, he’s not performing. End of.
Just how long are people going to keep using his injury’s as an excuse. Yes he’s had some injury’s, but his level’s of performance have not been good enough for the best part of three seasons now.
His captaincy only becomes an issue if Arteta ceases to pick him on a regular enough basis
No SueP,
The Captaincy is an issue, because he shouldn’t be Captain.
But we agree to differ on this issue, clearly. 🤷♂️
I fully concur with you on this. I’m sick and tired of his inconsistencies, just watch his next few games.
Unfortunately, our captain’s rhythm is disrupted by injuries. As a result, we have not seen the best of him for an extended period now. His positive contribution was brief against Brentford. But contribute, he did in a very difficult game, against difficult opposition and in tough weather conditions. When we win this League championship, I will remember these tough games and our boys’ endeavors to get something out of them.
Whatever about his positive contribution offensively after coming on he was woeful defensively for their equaliser. Once Brentford made first contact from that throw in , we had to be ready. He got caught at the wrong side of the attacker ,then stumbled and then threw a flailing left leg at the ball whilst facing his own goal . That mistake cost us 2 pts……small margins….