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Mikel Arteta gushes that Martin Odegaard is 'exactly what we want at Arsenal' and reveals Norwegian, 23, is already a senior figure at the club... but admits 'he needs to score more'

Mikel Arteta has hailed Martin Odegaard's natural leadership qualities but has called on the Norway captain to add more goals to his game.

Odegaard, 23, has been touted as a future Arsenal skipper and has been in fine form in recent months.

Signed permanently from Real Madrid in the summer having spent the second half of last season on loan at the Emirates Stadium, Odegaard has played a pivotal role in turning the Gunners into Champions League contenders.

Mikel Areta has lavished praise on Martin Odegaard for his role in Arsenal's rejuvination

Mikel Areta has lavished praise on Martin Odegaard for his role in Arsenal's rejuvination

The Norwegian star was signed on a permanent deal last summer and has become a key man

With Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang allowed to leave for Barcelona in January, Alexandre Lacazette has been installed as captain for now - but he is out of contract in the summer.