ARSENAL star Thomas Partey is relishing the chance to play alongside his former LaLiga rival Martin Odegaard at the Emirates.
The Gunners beat off competition from top European clubs to secure the Norwegian on loan from Real Madrid until the end of the season.
Thomas Partey has hailed Arsenal new boy Martin OdegaardCredit: Getty Images – Getty
The midfielder played against the Norwegian when they were both in LaLigaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Having joined Arsenal, Odegaard has already appeared in two of the three matches he has been eligible for.
He came on as a substitute in the Gunners’ goalless draw with Manchester United and the 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa on Saturday afternoon.
Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane revealed Odegaard forced through his loan move to Arsenal despite being asked to stay.
And former Atletico Madrid star Partey has admitted it is a massive coup for the north Londoners to have signed the playmaker having come up against him in Spain while he was on loan at Real Sociedad.
I remember playing against him, he’s so intelligent, he is always quick on the ball, he doesn’t give you a chance to win the ball
Thomas Partey on Martin Odegaard
He told Stadium Astro: “It’s difficult when you play against him.
“I remember playing against him, he’s so intelligent, he is always quick on the ball, he doesn’t give you a chance to win the ball.
“It’s amazing to have him here.
“I hope he has a great season and he’s able to help us achieve what we want to achieve.”
Thomas Partey’s stats in the Premier League this season
Odegaard is in line to make his first Arsenal start against Leeds and could line up alongside Partey for the first time.
Ghanaian star Partey was forced off towards to end of their dismal 1-0 defeat at Aston Villa last weekend.
Yet Arsenal were handed a massive boost following reports that the injury is not as bad as first feared and that he will be back in training this week.
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Martin Odegaard enjoys first training session with Arsenal
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
