Paul Merson hails Arsenal's midfield maestro as title race heats up
Paul Merson praised Arsenal after their 2-0 victory over Everton on Saturday, saying the Norwegian midfielder was the standout of the season. The win lifts the defending champions to 21 points from eight Premier League games, drawing them level with Manchester City at the top of the table.
Ezri Konsa opened the scoring in the seventh minute, scrambling the ball home from a corner after a swift assist from Sweden striker Viktor Gyokeres. The defender, who arrived from Aston Villa this summer, celebrated his first goal for the club.
Second‑half breakthrough
Gabriel Magalhaes doubled Arsenal's lead in the 68th minute, finishing from a close-range pass by Ben White. The goal cemented the Gunners' comfortable control of the match.
Odegaard shines as Arsenal’s linchpin
Martin Odegaard started and completed the full 90 minutes, taking five shots – one on target – and creating two clear chances. Paul Merson described him as "outstanding", adding that the midfielder "ticks it all over, he is so comfortable, has a great left foot and his confidence has been high this season". Merson also noted that Odegaard "has been the one for me" when the team is at its best.
Viktor Gyokeres, who provided the assist for Konsa, was substituted after 68 minutes for Kai Havertz, having recorded no shots but three created chances. Merson was less impressed, saying the striker "did not do well" and that his performance was "hard today" against a tough defender.
Injuries and upcoming challenges
James Garnrer, Tyrique George and Thierno Barry all missed opportunities for Everton, while Arsenal missed the services of Bukayo Saka, who suffered a hamstring injury that could keep him out for up to eight weeks. Noni Madueke replaced Saka and had a mixed game, with Ben White praised for his defensive work and assist.
Arsenal now turn their attention to a Carabao Cup fourth‑round tie away to League Two side Fleetwood Town on Tuesday night, before facing Liverpool at Anfield next Sunday in what promises to be a mouth‑watering Premier League clash.