Fit-again Odegaard back firing as one of Arsenal's top Guns

Martin Odegaard looks back to his formidable best in an Arsenal shirt.

After a barren spell throughout October and an injury-hit November, the Gunners captain has now scored twice in his last two games.

The latest of his seven goals in all competitions this season came in last weekend's 2-1 win over Wolves.

Ahead of tonight's trip to Luton, we look at the importance of Odegaard's return to full fitness and top form.

Star performance

There was a fluidity and guile about the Gunners against Wolves that often comes when Odegaard is playing well.

His goal was a superbly worked move, with Oleksandr Zinchenko and Gabriel Jesus playing a one-two before the former's cut-back was clinically swept home by Arsenal's No8.

The 24-year-old did not just score an excellent goal, however.

No player on the pitch created more big chances (three) or completed more passes (78), of which an impressive 43 were played into the final third.

Those numbers suggest more assists could be on the horizon, with only one to his name so far this term.

After last season, when Odegaard scored 15 Premier League goals and provided seven assists, expectations are inevitably high among Arsenal fans.

It has been a slow start to 2023-24 but the signs are positive heading into a key stretch of the campaign.

Leading by example

Odegaard's return does not simply mean extra quality in midfield for Arsenal.

The former Real Madrid ace also offers leadership, despite his relative youth.

He often drags his team forward, both with technical quality and determination, and mental fortitude will be key for the Gunners as they look to navigate a tricky winter period.

Speaking after the Wolves victory, Odegaard said: "We're top of the Premier League and I couldn't be prouder to be captain of this group of players.

"I've said so many times how amazing it is to play for this club. I love this team, I love the club and I love what we're doing. It's amazing to be a part of that and I'm excited for what's to come.

"This time of year is so important in the Premier League. You cannot afford to switch off for a single day in December — it's so intense.

"It gets tighter and tighter and the main thing is to win the games and get the points, however you can do it."

Adapting to change

Odegaard's role in midfield has changed slightly this season.

After the summer exit of Granit Xhaka, Mikel Arteta has typically fielded a more attacking line-up.

Therefore, Odegaard is operating in slightly deeper areas of the pitch, which is perhaps an explanation for the decrease in goals and assists.

With Declan Rice generally featuring as the sole holding midfielder, there is more of an emphasis on his team-mate to provide some defensive cover and pick up the ball in less advanced areas.

But Odegaard appears to have come through an adjustment period and is beginning to look threatening again, which bodes well for Arsenal ahead of the trip to Kenilworth Road.