06 March 2023 , 22:14
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Micah Richards lauded Martin Odegaard and compared the Arsenal skipper to Premier League legend David Silva.
Odegaard has captained the Gunners to the top of the table, with Mikel Arteta's men holding a five point advantage over closest challengers Manchester City. The Norwegian was a key influence as Arsenal came from two goals down to beat Bournemouth on Saturday.
It was the latest in a string of impressive performances from the 24-year-old, who also scored in the recent win over Everton. His displays this term have led to Richards including the midfielder in his shortlist for player of the season so far.
The former Premier League winner hailed Odegaard for his influence on Arsenal and the way he has bounced back from disappointment earlier in his career. Richards admitted he was unsure of the midfielder when he first joined the Gunners, but has been happy to be proved wrong.
"I love Odegaard's journey and the way he has put his career back on track. He was big news when he joined Real Madrid aged 16 but then things seemed to drift and I was wondering if he would ever realise his potential," Richards wrote for BBC Sport.
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"Odegaard was 22 when he joined Arsenal on loan from Real in 2021 and you only get so many chances at big clubs. I wasn't sure whether he would take off, or fade away.
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Richards believes Odegaard resembles Manchester City legend David Silva (Getty)"There are plenty of examples of talented teenagers who don't quite live up to the hype. I always think of a player called Sergio Canales who I used to buy on the Football Manager game all the time."
Richards went as far as to compare Odegaard to his former City team-mate Silva, who spent a decade at the Etihad Stadium. In that time, the Spaniard won four Premier League titles, scoring 60 goals in the top-flight.
And Richards believes that Odegaard's style of play bears a remarkable resemblance to how Silva played during his time in the Premier League. The former City defender admitted to being in "love" with Odegaard's style as he heaped praise on the midfielder.
"For Odegaard to turn things around for himself like this is impressive, especially in one of the world's most competitive leagues, and then to take the responsibility of captaincy to inspire his team too," Richards added.
"He has taken the challenge on and has helped turn Arsenal into title contenders, as the driving force in their midfield.
"Odegaard reminds me of my old City team-mate David Silva in the way he wants to get into pockets of space, get on the ball and dictate play. He does it all so effortlessly too, and I love watching him play."
Odegaard will be hoping to continue his side's title push when Arsenal travel to Fulham on Sunday. Silva meanwhile currently turns out for Real Sociedad, who sit in fourth place in LaLiga.