Odegaard said the VAR decisions against Newcastle last time out gave Arsenal 'extra fire'

Arsenal hammered Newcastle 4-1 in a comfortable win at the Emirates Stadium in front of their home fans. The game was a special one for the Gunners who suffered their first Premier League defeat last November against the Magpies and wanted to put the bad taste out of their mouths.

The Emirates side lost with Anthony Gordon's goal going to triple VAR review for several minutes, with Arteta describing the situation as 'embarrasing'. Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard said the team were motivated and wanted revenge for their controversial defeat and were looking for a win to stay in the league title race with Liverpool and Manchester City.

 "I think what happened to us against Newcastle last time gave us a little bit of extra fire today. Even though we felt a bit tired, after a lot of games, a lot of distance covered throughout the last games, we just wanted to come here and make a good game and give the fans a good night. And we did," said Odegaard.

The Norwegian was asked about the leadership he has taken on the field for the team this season. "I try to lead by example, I try to do the right things, try to put on a good mindset by always pushing the players around me. Doing what's best for the team." He also emphasised the good momentum the Gunners are enjoying and that they learned their lesson from last year and this season, they want to fight for trophies.

"Last year, we missed the title and now's the time to show that we learned something. We enjoy so much playing together. Every time we play, we're so excited. I think we're all living the dream. I think we've all been dreaming of being here, on the bigger stage and in the best league in the world. You see every week how competitive and how good it is. We want to fight for trophies and that's what we're going to do. Try to be there and push every day," concluded the Arsenal captain.

 

February 25, 2024