Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard believes Bukayo Saka has grown into a leader after standing in for him while he was on the sidelines, Afrosport reports.
The Norwegian midfielder was out for nearly two months with an ankle injury and under the leadership of Saka the Gunners were able to record some solid results such as a 2-2 Premier League draw with Manchester City and a 2-0 win over Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.
Odegaard has since returned back into the Arsenal squad and asserted that Saka’s leadership qualities are natural.
“It was a natural thing for him. He has grown into a leader now in the team and he can do that in his own way and in a very natural way,” the former Real Madrid player said.
“I didn’t have to do anything special there when he took that but I think he enjoyed that and well deserved that he got the armband for a few games as well.”
Odegaard also spoke about the help he has rendered to Ethan Nwaneri development as an Arsenal first team player and is pleased with how the 17-year-old has been developing.
“I’ve been trying to help him in many different ways. For a young player, sometimes it’s just to help him be himself and feel natural,” he added.
“Everyone can see the quality he has and for him it’s just about showing that, enjoying it and keep improving all the time.
“He is doing amazing. For his age to play the way he plays with such confidence and such eagerness and always show his qualities – I’m really happy for him and proud of him for what he is doing.”
Odegaard’s earlier injury this season has limited him to 10 games in all competitions, scoring one goal and providing three assists.
