ARSENAL’S early Premier League challenge “doesn’t surprise” West Ham boss David Moyes, who singled out Martin Odegaard with special praise.
The Gunners have been enjoying a flying start in the Prem as they are top of the table after winning eight and losing only one out of their first nine matches.
Moyes has always been an admirer of fellow manager Mikel Arteta, even when pundits and fans publicly questioned him, and always believed he could put together a strong unit.
The ex-Manchester United boss also sang Odegaard’s praises as he claims he is the one that makes a “real difference”, while most credit the likes of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli.
Moyes told talkSPORT: “It doesn’t surprise me. I used to listen to pundits criticising Arsenal but they have been a really good team for a while and nobody was giving them the respect.
“They brought in Odegaard and he’s made a real difference in the position he plays for them and makes it really difficult for opponents.
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“I think Mikel had an idea of what he thinks it should look like. After working with Pep [Guardiola] for a few years and giving him that guidance on how to prepare a good team, it was just I felt that nobody was giving Mikel any credit whatsoever.
“He’s a really diligent boy and a young manager learning his way. He’ll make a few mistakes, but I did too and everybody does when you are in management in the early years.
“He isn’t half putting together a good side. Sometimes you need to have good fortune to have good young players at your club when you arrive in. And I think Arsenal have good young players in their system.”
Arsenal beat Liverpool 3-2 at the Emirates on Sunday to overtake Manchester City in first place.
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The Gunners are now set to face Bodo Glimt in the Europa League on Thursday at the Aspmyra Stadion.
The North Londoners will then travel to Leeds on Sunday for a tricky Premier League encounter.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
