Exclusive: Martin Odegaard explains why Arsenal fans are ‘crucial’ - ‘Gives us that extra gear’

Martin Odegaard has revealed that the Arsenal fans have played a “crucial part” in the team’s success this season in an exclusive interview with TNT Sports.

The Gunners are currently top of the Premier League and are bidding to try and compete for a historic double under Mikel Arteta.

They will have to overturn a 1-0 deficit against FC Porto in their Champions League last-16 clash, and ahead of the return leg at the Emirates on Tuesday evening - which you can watch live on TNT Sports and discovery+ - captain Martin Odegaard spoke exclusively to TNT Sports.

The Norwegian hailed the impact of the fans at the Emirates, saying that their support has given the club an “extra gear”.

“Big role, what they’ve done for us this season, and especially in the last few games at home, has been unbelievable," he said.

“It just gives us that extra gear and that extra bit of fire on the pitch.

“Again, they will be so important for us, and I’m sure they’re going to be fired up and ready for the game, so I can’t wait.”

Odegaard was then asked whether he and his team-mates can feel that energy from the pitch.

“Yeah, for sure [smiling], they’re such a crucial part of what we’re doing and that’s the special thing about this club now.

"We’re all so together and that’s with the fans as well, and every time we play, we feel so supported and we can feel the energy, it’s cool.”

Odegaard also spoke about the togetherness of the team at the moment as they have stacked up eight consecutive wins in the Premier League.

He explained that there is just a feeling of togetherness that builds a deep sense of trust within the squad.

“I think we just have that feeling that we trust each other and we have the confidence," he said.

"When we’re on the pitch we feel safe. When we’re attacking or defending, we feel good. It’s just about finding our flow.

“It’s just a feeling, especially when we defend. For example, for me sometimes, I’m the one going to put the pressure on in the first line with the striker.

“And you always know that someone will have your back and you’re not worried about what’s going on behind you. It’s much easier for us to put pressure on and be aggressive.

“Also, sometimes you have to defend deep, for corners or free-kicks, and it’s just that feeling that you’re confident in your defenders and that’s something we really feel at the moment.

"We’re so strong when we have to be in those situations as well, it’s a good thing.”

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