Martin Odegaard’s furious rant at team-mate hints at growing concern for Arsenal

MIRROR

Martin Odegaard inadvertently revealed a potential concern for Mikel Arteta during a furious exchange in Arsenal ’s FA Cup defeat to Manchester City.

The Gunners fell at the fourth round stage on Friday evening – Nathan Ake’s strike proving to be enough for Pep Guardiola’s men. Whilst elimination gives Arsenal the chance to focus more of their efforts on their title tilt, there appears to be underlying concerns that could hugely hamper the North Londoners’ season.

Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey picked up a problem during the game and was replaced by former Anderlecht star Albert Sambi Lokonga at the brea k. The Belgian did not have the best time of things having struggled against a hugely talented Man City midfield.

He was also pictured being on the end of a furious rant from captain Odegaard. Midway through the second period, the hosts attempted to probe Arsenal.

As would be expected, Norwegian playmaker Odegaard was dictating things but was left aghast by his team-mate’s positioning as Rodri managed to pass the ball unchallenged into the heart of the Arsenal midfield. Having pointed out the free man on a number of occasions, the former Real Madrid star then berated Lokonga for not following his instructions.

The youngster appeared to not take kindly to Odegaard’s rant as he departed straight down the tunnel come the final whistle. His performance will certainly not have left many convinced that he can be Partey’s full-time replacement should he be out for an extended period.