‘He’s become a must start’: Wayne Rooney claims Arteta simply cannot drop one Arsenal player now

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Arsenal might have endured a stinking night at Selhurst Park last night, but at least there was some positive comments about them before the game from Wayne Rooney.

Rooney was in the Sky Sports studio alongside Jamie Carragher to offer his take on the Gunners and a number of other subjects through the night. The now Derby manager was insightful in his analysis, and before the game, offered some complimentary takes on a number of Arsenal players.

One of those he picked out as being a key player for Arsenal was Norwegian midfielder, Martin Odegaard. After signing in the summer, Odegaard has become a vital cog in Arteta’s machine. And Rooney believes he is a player who the Gunners boss simply cannot leave out now.

“I think he’s done really well, I don’t think he started off the best, but he’s grew into his role and he’s become a must starter for me, if you like. He creates chances for his teammates and is scoring the odd goal as well, so he is an important player for them,” Rooney said of Odegaard on Sky.

Odegaard has made 31 appearances in all competitions this season for Arsenal, scoring five goals.

TBR’s View: Odegaard A Top Class Signing For Arsenal

There were a few eyebrows raised when Arsenal went back for Odegaard after his loan spell. But there is no doubt now that eight months or so down the line that they made the right call.

Odegaard has been – as Rooney says – excellent for the Gunners. His is a key focal point in how their attacks are built and while he doesn’t always get the killer pass, he’s normally involved somewhere.

The Norwegian will be key for Arsenal as they keep pushing for the top four. Key for Odegaard is consistency, and if he can find even more of that he’ll be a top Premier League player.