Ever wondered what players say behind the scenes ahead of the North London Derby? Martin Odegaard has shared the inside scoop.
Arsenal are hopeful that Odegaard will be fit to face Tottenham, as he nears the end of his recovery from injury.
Having the Norwegian back in time for the North London Derby would be a huge plus for the Gunners, who have experienced an injury crisis early into the season.
Still, Arsenal sit top of the Premier League table, a lead that could be extended to six points with a win over Spurs, something the squad have their minds on.
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Martin Odegaard reveals the feeling in the Arsenal squad ahead of the North London Derby
There’s confidence that Arsenal will beat Spurs to go clear at the summit, but Mikel Arteta won’t allow his players to get ahead of themselves.
Already, it’s clear that the Arsenal manager doesn’t have to block out the noise, as Odegaard lifted the lid on what the squad are saying behind the scenes right now.
“It’s special for the supporters, but you can feel it inside the club as well. It means a lot to everybody, and I think it makes it easier for the players coming back from internationals to face a game like this,” Odegaard told Arsenal’s official programme.
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What came next from the skipper is something fans will love, as the one thing on the players’ minds is a win.
“We know there is no option but to be completely on it from the very first second. That’s what you want,” he said defiantly.
The meaning of the North London Derby from the players themselves.
“I remember by first North London Derby and Tony Adams literally had me up against the wall by the throat and said, ‘You don’t understand. We can’t lose this game.”
Lee Dixon on his first ever North London Derby experience.
For some players, it will be a first taste of a competitive North London Derby, but the new boys haven’t needed much guidance about Sunday’s affair.
“We’ve got a few new players this season, and I know they are all looking forward to this game too,” Odegaard shared.
“This rivalry is something you feel when you arrive here. I remember my first derby and people talking about it inside the club. We’ve got people here who have been at the club for a long time and are massive Arsenal fans, so they will tell you straight away!”
Martin Zubimendi knows what a derby match means, with the Arsenal squad well-equipped to step up to the task to earn three points and bragging rights on Sunday afternoon in N5.
Arsenal will want Odegaard back for the North London Derby
Injury boosts have come at a good time for Arsenal, who could welcome a handful of key players back for the derby, including Odegaard.
Having the 26-year-old back isn’t only beneficial due to his quality and leadership skills, but because of the record he boasts against Tottenham, too.
Odegaard has won 75% of the North London Derbies he’s played in, captaining the Gunners to four victories since taking the armband.
Additionally, the playmaker has recorded three goal contributions against Spurs, posing a real danger to the Lilywhites.
The battle of North London is hours away from commencing, with those in the red corner certainly ready.