MARTIN ODEGAARD should be stripped of the Arsenal captaincy, according to ex-Match of the Day pundit Mark Lawrenson.
The former defender did not hold back after ‘s underwhelming display in Arsenal’s semi-final first leg defeat to .
‘s side were after struck early to give the French giants a crucial away win.
Odegaard struggled to influence the game, out of 27 attempts – his lowest total in any match this season.
Lawrenson reckons the pressure of being captain is affecting the Norwegian’s performances.
He told Paddy Power: “The captain’s armband should be taken away from Odegaard, so he can get back to focusing on his performances.
“We all know that he’s a good player, but he’s just had a six out of 10 season.”;
Odegaard, 25, has worn the armband since 2022 after and has been a integral part of Arteta’s leadership group.
But Lawrenson believes there is a better candidate in the ranks.
He added: “If you gave the armband instead, you imagine that it wouldn’t affect his performances, especially considering he was captain at .
“I’d give it to Rice so Odegaard can focus on improving his performances.”;
Odegaard has registered just one assist in his last eight matches and was largely anonymous against PSG, as Arsenal failed to find a breakthrough.
Lawrenson, 66, made over 300 appearances for Liverpool and won five league titles during his career.
He spent years on the sofa analysing performances – and he’s not convinced Odegaard is the right man to lead the Gunners.
The second leg in Paris takes place next Wednesday, with Arsenal needing a big turnaround to keep their European dream alive.
