Bukayo Saka has defended Martin Odegaard after being asked about calls for the Arsenal captain to be benched by Norway before the World Cup.
Speaking to Hayters TV before England’s quarter-final against Norway, Saka was asked about criticism Odegaard faced before the tournament.
“Benched? For Norway? That’s crazy,” Saka said.
He then added: “No comment from myself because that’s the manager’s decision. He’s showing why he should play.”
The line gives Arsenal supporters another subplot before Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final in Miami. ReadArsenal covered England v Norway team news earlier today, with Saka, Declan Rice and Odegaard all central to the club angle.
Saka Knows Odegaard’s Value
Saka’s reaction was natural. He has played with Odegaard for years at Arsenal and understands how important the midfielder can be in possession.
Odegaard has helped Norway reach the last eight, where they will face an England side containing several Arsenal connections.
ReadArsenal also looked at how Odegaard’s Norway run created a direct World Cup meeting with England. That meeting now carries extra interest because of Saka’s public praise.
For Arsenal fans, the quote will land well. Saka did not overstep by criticising Norway’s selection debate, but he made his respect for Odegaard clear.
The bigger issue comes on the pitch. England need to limit Odegaard’s influence between the lines, while Norway must find a way to control Saka’s pace and one-v-one threat.
Whatever happens in Miami, at least one Arsenal player will reach the World Cup semi-finals. Saka’s answer showed the mutual respect inside the Arsenal dressing room before a major international clash.
