Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta hints at huge tactical change as he reveals new position for captain Martin Odegaard

ARSENAL boss Mikel Arteta has hinted at a huge tactical change for Martin Odegaard to play in a deeper midfielder position.

The skipper has been crucial for the Gunners Premier League title race this term but has given his best form closer to the backline.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has hinted at a position change for captain Martin OdegaardGetty

Alamy

Odegaard who usually plays a more attacking role could play a defensive position[/caption]

Odegaard, who signed a new long-term contract with Arsenal in September has made an impressive start this term.

In his 23 appearances, the skipper has scored seven goals across all competitions.

But in those games, the Norwegian who typically plays in an attacking position has proved himself useful closer to the back four.

Ahead of Arsenal’s clash against West Ham on Thursday night, Arteta said: “Well there are certain games that require certain things from certain players.

“We have used Martin to accommodate the needs of the team to make us better against certain behaviours and challenges that the opponents put for us. That’s a big quality of his.

“He also the defensive part which I’m really impressed with and I’m really happy with that because it’s a part of the game that we want to transform and keep evolving.”

Since the departure of Granit Xhaka and the absence of Thomas Partey due to injury, Odegaard has taken over the defensive roles they both provided.

And he has seemed to excel in his new role in the Gunners victories against Wolves, Brentford and Brighton.

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Starting 15 of his 16 league appearances this term the Norway captain will be expected to lead his side at the Emirates on Thursday evening.

The Gunners who currently sit second in the league must secure a win against the Hammers if they are to go ahead of frontrunners Liverpool.

Their last time out ended in a draw with the Reds in which boss Jurgen Klopp blasted Odegaard who clearly struck the ball with his hand after Trent Alexander Arnold’s free-kick deflected.

Liverpool was denied a penalty for Odegaard’s incident which caused an uproar amongst players and fans.