Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher has praised Arsenal midfielder Martin Odegaard‘s ability to press the ball, along with a number of his teammates.
The Norwegian has been credited more for his ability in possession but Carragher says his willingness to pressure opponents is equally important for the Gunners:
“Over the last eleven games, they have only conceded seven goals. It’s very reminiscent of Manchester City. I want to look at the pressing of Martin Odegaard and then Granit Xhaka, leaving Thomas Partey free. Odegaard is a pressing machine, along with [Gabriel] Martinelli. They are really high up the pitch and Xhaka is covering 11 kilometres a game because he is being asked to do a lot more.”
Carragher did, however, warn that the tactical “tweak” that has seen Xhaka play further forward could be exploited by Liverpool during the game at the Emirates tomorrow night:
“Sometimes it isn’t right to go [and press] and there are spaces either side of Partey. In the game against Liverpool, that is something they will have to be careful about when they press. They have to be mindful of that.”
It will be interesting to see how manager Mikel Arteta approaches the game against Jurgen Klopp’s side. Will he keep faith with the tactics that have served him so well in recent months or will he look to change things in accordance with the opponents he is facing?
Considering their excellent form recently, it would be a surprise if any adjustments are made to Arsenal’s tactical setup. As the old adage says: if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.