Martin Odegaard will face four of his Arsenal teammates in the World Cup quarter-finals, with Norway taking on England in Miami on Saturday night (10pm UK time).
Our captain has led his country to the first quarter-final in World Cup history and will face Eberechi Eze, Noni Madueke, Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka for a place in the semi-finals.
Martin was asked about his Arsenal teammates during his pre-match media duties and had many kind words for his fellow Gunners.
“I spoke to some of them a little bit during the tournament,” Martin said, “obviously we know the quality they have.
“I know them very well. (They are) outstanding world-class players playing for one of the best national teams in the world, so it will be a big test for us.”
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The midfield battle is likely to be key in Saturday’s match, with Martin likely to go toe-to-toe with midfield partner Declan Rice.
“He’s been an outstanding player for a long time. Playing with him you can see all his qualities and it’s a pleasure to share the field with him.”
“He is someone who always gives everything for the team, always fights for every ball, gives his energy on the field, to the team, leads the team forward and he can do a lot on the field.”
Asked how Norway could try to stop Declan, Martin admitted it would be a difficult task.
“He can defend, he can attack, he can be physical, he can handle the ball well, so he is a very complete player. It will be a good test for all of us.”
Norway is being treated as an underdog, having never made it this far at a World Cup before. England, meanwhile, are battling their third consecutive quarter-final and are former world champions.
But Martin insists neither he nor his Norwegian teammates are fazed by the story, especially after their stunning 2-1 win over Brazil in the round of 16.
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“In Brazil it was the same, we were underdogs and as you saw in football anything can happen. We’ll try and see what we can do and we’re looking forward to it.”
“I think we showed the world that we are a good team; Let’s prepare well and continue to enjoy football and this moment together.”
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