Steven Gerrard was a technically gifted midfielder during his playing career, with extensive experience of what it takes to perform at the highest level of European football. His assessment of Martin Odegaard therefore offers an interesting perspective on the Arsenal captain’s importance to the team.The former England midfielder watched Odegaard come on in the second half of Arsenal’s Champions League match against Lille, where his contribution helped the Gunners secure victory.Odegaard is enjoying a strong season after injuries restricted his involvement for Arsenal last season. The Norwegian playmaker is now looking to make the most of his opportunities and contribute consistently as the club pursues success on multiple fronts.Gerrard highlights Odegaard’s leadershipOdegaard has been an important figure for Arsenal this season, helping a team determined to retain the Premier League title and challenge for the Champions League. His performances have demonstrated the value of his creativity and technical ability, particularly when opponents make it difficult to create clear chances.Even though he entered the Lille match in the second half, Odegaard showed why his presence can make a difference. His ability to identify spaces and find solutions gives Arsenal another attacking dimension when their opponents defend in organised formations.Speaking about the midfielder, the BBC quoted Gerrard as saying:“Martin Odegaard is a technical leader.“I don’t think that he’s the most vocal, but he leads in a different way with his quality, with his vision, and he gives this group of players something different.“When they can’t open the door and they are playing against these diligent defensive shapes he’s that one with a vibe of magic, who can find the space and open the door.”(Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)Arsenal benefit from the Norwegian’s creativityGerrard’s comments emphasise that leadership does not always depend on being the loudest voice in the dressing room. Odegaard influences Arsenal through his technical quality, vision and ability to make decisions under pressure.These qualities are particularly valuable when Arsenal face opponents who defend deep and leave limited space for attackers to exploit. His awareness and passing can help the team find openings that might otherwise be difficult to create.With Arsenal competing for major honours, maintaining Odegaard’s influence will be important. His return to regular involvement following last season’s injury problems gives the club another creative option as they look to sustain their performances throughout the campaign._____________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…More Stories / Latest News“Technical leader” Steven Gerrard hails Arsenal man14 October 2026, 12:00Eze admits he is having fun playing in Arsenal’s attack14 October 2026, 10:30“Bang average” Ally McCoist reveals how Arsenal beat Lille14 October 2026, 9:00The post “Technical leader” Steven Gerrard hails Arsenal man appeared first on Just Arsenal News.