Martin Odegaard handed Arsenal warning after debut cameo against Man Utd
Martin Odegaard has been warned he faces a "long road" at Arsenal to force his way into Mikel Arteta's starting XI plans by former Gunners defender Sol Campbell.
Real Madrid midfielder Odegaard will spend the rest of the season on loan at the Emirates after sealing the move late in the January transfer window.
The 22-year-old made his debut in the 0-0 draw with Manchester United on Saturday, replacing Emile Smith Rowe with seven minutes remaining.
Smith Rowe, 20, has been one of the Gunners' standout players this season, picking up 10 goals or assists in 16 games in all competitions.
And Campbell claims Odegaard will have a fight on his hands to earn further opportunities in Arsenal's attacking midfield.
The former centre-back, who made 197 appearances for the north London club, told Stadium Astro : "It’s always nice to have young players coming in.
"It’s obviously not completely worked for him (Odegaard) at Real Madrid. Going forward, if he gets more minutes on the pitch, then he will show his quality.
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"You can see he’s got quality, the way he moves and his touch on the ball, he has just got to get into it, get fit and force his way in.
"It’s all about impact. He came off the bench, then you start to train and you start moving and pushing who you are.
"Hopefully your manager sees that and then you can get some more minutes on the pitch. After a while you start.
Who is the better player out of Odegaard and Smith Rowe? Have your say in the comments.
"It’s a long road for him but hopefully the next time he comes on he can make an impact and start pushing Arsenal up the league.
"We need players who are going to change something on the pitch. At the same time he is going to learn."
Campbell also explained why Odegaard's "attitude" will hold the key to how his time at Arsenal will play out.
He added: "If you are a good player, training every day, there are a lot games.
"Anything can change in a second. There are plenty of games for him to impress. It’s all up to him.
“When he goes on the pitch it is all about proving who he is and staking a claim. As long as you have that attitude as a young player then you will go far. He’s got talent."
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