Arsenal news: Martin Ødegaard ‘like a new signing’, says Paul Merson

Paul Merson says Martin Ødegaard has been “like a new signing” for Arsenal after the captain’s winner against Hull City continued his improved scoring form.

Ødegaard struck in the 72nd minute at the Emirates on Saturday to settle a difficult afternoon for Mikel Arteta’s side, who struggled to break down the visitors before securing a 1-0 victory.

The midfielder’s fifth goal of the season in all competitions surpassed his total of one from last term, according to Metro, which reported Merson’s comments on Sky Sports.

Arsenal news: Merson singles out Ødegaard

Merson felt the captain brought urgency to an Arsenal performance too often slowed by unnecessary touches.

“He’s been outstanding. He’s the only one really that moves it quickly,” the former Arsenal midfielder said.

“I just thought too many players took too many touches and they slowed it down and gave Hull half a chance.”

Hull’s defensive organisation kept the game goalless until midway through the second half. Merson credited the visitors but felt Ødegaard’s speed of thought eventually separated the teams.

“Hull defended very well and it took Martin Odegaard to break them down if I’m being honest,” he said.

“I think he’s been outstanding this season, he’s like a new signing for them and he’s been the man so far.”

Captain reacts quickest to secure Hull win

Ødegaard scored after Hull goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis saved Noni Madueke’s effort at his near post. The captain reached the loose ball first and finished the rebound.

Merson highlighted the anticipation that took him ahead of the defenders.

“He’s the first one to react and there’s two defenders in front of him,” he said. “Because of his reaction, he runs past them, he hits it, there’s a slight deflection and it goes underneath the goalkeeper’s arms.”

Tzolakis earned Merson’s praise as Hull’s best player, while David Raya had been called into action at the other end by an early Elliot Stroud effort.

Arsenal also had a first-half penalty appeal for a pull on Kai Havertz ruled out for offside. Our Arsenal 1-0 Hull match report covers the key incidents.

Ødegaard improves on last season’s goal return

Merson had already described Ødegaard as looking like a “£100m new signing” in September, and Saturday’s goal provided further evidence of his improved output.

According to Metro, the Norway international scored once in 36 appearances during an injury-hit campaign last season. He now has five goals across all competitions this term.

His latest contribution secured Arsenal’s ninth win from ten Premier League matches, taking them to 27 points.

Manchester City’s subsequent 3-1 defeat at Nottingham Forest left Arteta’s side six points ahead of City. Brighton can move within five points of Arsenal if they beat Brentford on Sunday.

Newcastle, Dortmund and Man City await Arsenal

Arsenal return from the international break with a trip to Newcastle, followed by home games against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League and Manchester City in the Premier League.

Merson suggested the Hull result could prove significant when Arsenal assess their season, despite the performance falling short of their best.

“Arsenal weren’t great but they won,” he said.

Follow the latest results and reaction through our Premier League coverage.