"Completely different player when he’s playing with Odegaard" - Paul Merson makes observation about Arsenal star after win over Forest

Arsenal legend Paul Merson has made an observation about Gunners talent Bukayo Saka, who played brilliantly in their comprehensive 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest. The Gunners faced Forest in their Premier League clash yesterday (November 23) at the Emirates Stadium, coming out strong winners.

Bukayo Saka was unplayable on the day, leading the Gunners to a remarkable start. With 15 minutes on the clock, he linked well with captain Martin Odegaard, driving into the box, before unleashing a powerful shot into the top corner to open the scoring.

Arsenal were unrelenting in attack, and it paid off over and again. A long-range effort from Thomas Partey in the 52nd minute extended their lead, while youngster Ethan Nwaneri sealed the win with the third goal in the 86th minute.

Speaking after the game, Paul Merson shared his observation on how Saka's game has improved while playing with Martin Odegaard. He said on Sky Sports (via Metro):

"I thought they were outstanding. First half they started really well, must-win game. For me, it was last chance saloon, got to keep on winning now and they started the game really well.

"Brilliant goal by Saka. Saka is a completely different player when he’s playing with Odegaard. When Odegaard plays and they both play down that right, the way they interact and they’re both singing off the same hymn sheet… phenomenal. Great goal by Saka. He runs across the goal and whips it back the other way."

Martin Odegaard fell to injury in early September, and was out of contention until early November, missing 12 games. His absence clearly affected the team, as they lost two Premier League games. However, his return helped them in their 1-1 draw against Chelsea and now, in their win against Nottingham Forest.

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Paul Merson pushes Arsenal to keep winning, following impressive performance against Forest

Paul Merson has pushed Arsenal to find a winning run of form, following their brilliant performance against Nottingham Forest. The Gunners currently sit in fourth place on the Premier League table, and will need to consistently clinch three points per game if they are to rise to the top.

Merson said on Sky Sports (via Metro):

"They’ve got some good fixtures coming up. You look at their next seven or eight games, you would expect them to near-on win all of them or maybe draw one, really, if they want to put a run together.

"They’ve had a hard start. The other five teams that finished in the top five last season, they’ve played all of them this season already and played Bournemouth away which is not an easy game. Now the games become a little bit easier, they got to keep on winning."

Arsenal have to travel for their midweek clash against Sporting CP in the UEFA Champions League on November 26. After that, they will return to London, where they face West Ham on November 30.