Netherlands manager Louis van Gaal has doubled down on his verdict of Arsenal midfielder Martin Odegaard.
Odegaard, who is valued at £36million on Transfermarkt, joined the Gunners from Real Madrid over the summer, signing for a reported £30million after enjoying a successful loan stint at the Emirates Stadium during the second half of last season.
Back in September, Van Gaal hailed the youngster's notable playmaking ability, claiming that he was a 'fantastic passer.'
Now, the former Manchester United head coach has hailed the 22-year-old, stating that he is a team player whilst also heaping praise on his passing ability yet again.
When asked by TV2 which Norwegian player he would want in his Netherlands side apart from Erling Haaland, Van Gaal replied: "I shall choose between and Odegaard and [Kristian] Thorstvedt.
"Odegaard is very creative and has very good passing. He can play the ball where he wants.
"When the player demands the ball in a good position he can give the ball. And he’s a team player.
"He stays a team player, that is very good."
The legendary head coach also claimed that the Norway captain should never have joined Real Madrid back in 2015, arguing that Dutch giants Ajax would have been the perfect destination for a then 16-year-old Odegaard.
"It is a simple answer. Ajax would be the best education," Van Gaal said
"AZ (Alkmaar) is also a very nice place for young Norwegian players to go to."
Odegaard has been named on the bench in each of the last three league games, coming on as a second-half substitute during wins against Aston Villa, Leicester City and Watford.
