Ian Wright rejects former teammates' Martin Odegaard criticism with remarkable comparison

Ian Wright has hit back at criticism of Martin Odegaard from his former Arsenal teammates Martin Keown and Tony Adams.

Odegaard joined the Gunners on loan from Real Madrid at the end of the January transfer window after failing to break into Zinedine Zidane ’s side.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has proven to be a big fan of the Norwegian, moving Emile Smith-Rowe out of position to play Odegaard in his favoured number 10 role.

Though he has impressed with his performances since moving to London, Odegaard is still yet to register a goal or an assist for the Gunners.

That caused Keown to blast the decision to sign Odegaard as a ‘project’.

Arsenal's signing of Martin Odegaard has come under fire (Getty Images)

“Odegaard, I wouldn’t (start) because it’s almost another project which we haven’t got time for now,” he told BT Sport.

“We have to win games of football and he’s not ready yet, he’s demonstrated that.”

Former Arsenal skipper Adams has also expressed his reservations about his old side’s decision to bring in Odegaard.

Tony Adams joined Martin Keown in questioning the impact Odegaard will have in the Premier League (REUTERS)

“The Premier League is a bit special with respect that Odegaard has come into this league,” he told Stadium Astro.

“Some people respond to it and can do it, some people can’t. If you get them in on loan and go ‘let’s have a look if he can do it or not, if he can play in this league’.

“I think the jury’s out. I think he’s a super player, very talented. But is the Premier League for him? Not too sure about that.”

Those arguments have no wash with Wright though, who has sensationally compared Odegaard to former Tottenham and England star Paul Gasgoine.

Despite impressive performances, Odegaard is yet to register a goal or assist (Getty Images)

“People like Odegaard, he brings people into the game, he gives you touches,” Wright said on the Wrighty’s House podcast.

“I remember when I played with Gazza, Gazza was amazing for that. He gives you the ball, you get touches of the ball.

“I remember playing for England the first time, he said: “Wrighty, whenever I’m gonna get it, be behind me, let me know where you are, I’ll turn it round the corner for you, you give it back to me, I’ll pass it out, get yourself some touches early doors and get your confidence up.

“That’s what he’s like, a generous player.”