Odegaard reveals what he spotted in pre-season that convinced him Arsenal were title challengers

Arsenal skipper Martin Odegaard has revealed the moment he realised his side "could do something special" this season.

The 24-year-old has been a crucial part of the Gunners' incredible rise to the top of the table, as the club eye their first domestic title since 2004.

Mikel Arteta's men are in pole position, five points clear of Manchester City, with his young side continuing to surpass all expectations.

But with so many shining lights at Arsenal this season, the Norwegian might well be the pick of the bunch. He is the club's top scorer with eight Premier League goals and five assists, already smashing his tally of 11 goal contributions last campaign.

Odegaard was awarded the Player of the Month award for both November and December following his excellent form, earning him comparisons with Gunners legend Dennis Bergkamp.

But, what turned an Arsenal side, often criticised for being 'too nice', into genuine title contenders?

Odegaard reveals Arsenal "hunger"

Odegaard has spoken out on a moment in pre-season, where he noticed a difference in the team's "hunger" and "anger".

"The way we were working in pre-season, I had the feeling that we could do something special," Odegaard told The Telegraph.

"With the signings we made, and also because of what happened last year. It gave us something. A bit more hunger. A bit more determination. We were angry, you know?

"For the players it is not a shock that we are where we are. We are enjoying it. But we know we can improve. No one is satisfied.

"Everyone just wants to get better. The last few days [after defeat at Everton] have been maybe the best training sessions we have had for ages. That says a lot."

Odegaard discusses 'chaotic career'

The midfielder has carried a weight of expectation ever since his £3.5million move to Real Madrid at the age of just 15.

After failing to break into the first team at the Bernabeu, Odegaard had loan spells away at Heerenveen, Vitesse and Real Sociedad, but struggled to make a mark. However, he finally looks to be reaching his potential at the Emirates.

Admitting that his career had been "chaotic", Odegaard expressed his relief at finally finding a base in north London.

“Towards the end of the season I never knew what was going to happen in the next season,” he continued.

“Of all the teams I have been in, I maybe had only one proper pre-season before coming here. It has always been chaotic.”

The Gunners face a tough test against Brentford on Saturday, who are unbeaten in their last eight Premier League matches. But a win would see them pull eight points clear of Manchester City.

Topics: Martin Odegaard, Arsenal, Mikel Arteta, Premier League, Football

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno