Ex-Arsenal defender reveals who should take over from Martin Odegaard as Arsenal Captain

Ex-Arsenal defender Nigel Winterburn has revealed his own choice of who should wear the Arsenal captaincy armband should Martin Odegaard leave the club or Manager Mikel Arteta choose to strip him of his captaincy given his recent dip in form.

While there has been no indication that Odegaard will lose the armband after this season, Mikel Arteta may consider alternatives.

According to Nigel Winterburn, former Arsenal defender, Declan Rice would be an ideal candidate to succeed Odegaard as captain. Rice has been Arsenal’s standout performer this season, bringing energy and vocal leadership to the midfield. Winterburn believes that Rice’s impressive displays and growing influence on the pitch make him a strong contender for the captaincy.

“I do understand why people are talking about Rice potentially getting the captaincy, because of his energy and the fact he has become a more vocal presence on the pitch, especially in the second half of the season,” Winterburn said in an exclusive interview.

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Rice’s leadership qualities have been evident throughout the season, with the midfielder consistently demonstrating his commitment and passion for the team.

Winterburn praised Rice’s tireless work rate and ability to drive the team forward, saying: “Declan Rice has been a revelation for Arsenal this season. His energy, enthusiasm, and leadership qualities have been instrumental in the team’s success.”

While Odegaard’s form has raised concerns about his captaincy, Winterburn emphasised that the Norway international’s value to the team extends beyond his on-field production.

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“Captains lead in different ways,” Winterburn explained. “When a captain’s form drops off, as Martin Odegaard’s has, taking the armband off them is a conversation that’s always going to come up.”

However, Winterburn believes that Odegaard’s role as a link between the manager and the squad is crucial. “I think he’s more important than people realise, as a link between the manager and the squad both on the pitch and off it,” he said.

Other potential candidates for the captaincy include defenders Gabriel and William Saliba, who have emerged as leaders in Arsenal’s defence. However, Winterburn believes that Rice’s influence on the team’s midfield makes him the most suitable candidate.

“Declan Rice has been outstanding for Arsenal this season, and if Mikel Arteta was to consider swapping the captaincy, I think he would be the ideal candidate,” Winterburn said. “Rice has the respect of his teammates, and his leadership qualities are evident on the pitch.”

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