Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has shown his full support for Martin Odegaard, who has struggled with form this season.
Odegaard has previously played a significant role for the Gunners but has found it hard to hit the same top form this season.
His dip in performance has led to strong criticism from fans and pundits, with some even calling for him to be dropped and stripped of the captain’s armband.
However, Rice has backed his teammate. “He’s incredible, he’s our leader, he’s our captain, he trains every single day, he plays every minute of every game,” he said.
“He’s one of the best lads I’ve seen away from the pitch in terms of how he lives his life.”
Declan Rice claims Odegaard still commands respect
Rice also pushed back against claims that Odegaard lacks control in the dressing room or has lost the trust of the players.
“He’s got the full respect of the dressing room – the way he demands, the way he drives the team, the way he speaks,” Rice added.
“You would not see him as that type of character, but he really is behind the scenes, and he’s been amazing for us.
“We would not want anyone else being our captain, and I think the lads feel the same way about that as well.”
The England star stressed that dips in form are common in football, and he believes Odegaard can bounce back.
Arsenal face a crucial Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain tonight.
They will try to overturn a one-goal deficit and secure a place in the final of the competition.
