Ex-Arsenal star urges boss Mikel Arteta to consider picking Ethan Nwaneri over captain Martin Odegaard

Winterburn has sung the praises of Gunners youngster Nwaneri and believes Arsenal should see him as a viable alternative for captain Martin Odegaard. The former Arsenal full-back has been highly-impressed with Nwaneri, in particular his passing and ability to go past players. Nwaneri replaced Odegaard in the 38th minute of the 5-0 win over Leeds after the Norwegian suffered a shoulder injury. 

Nwaneri is a massive talent, and undoubtedly one who will shine for Arsenal, but Arteta knows Odegaard is his main man in midfield. The Arsenal boss points towards the vote he held with players and staff over who should be captain - and the result was 100% in favour of the Norway international. Arteta said: "By a mile, by 100 miles, everybody chose the same person which is Odegaard. Which is the most clear sign you can have is how they feel about who has to be their captain, to defend, improve and win the matches we want to win. I think there is no question about that."

Winterburn told The Metro: "When Nwaneri came on in Odegaard’s position, he played a slightly different role. When Odegaard plays, he has that really good link-up with Saka on the right side, but I liked seeing Nwaneri take up a different position and demand the ball more. He got on the ball a lot more, and his passing was excellent. He’s got that superb ability to go past a player in midfield as well if Arteta is looking for something different."

Nwaneri may have the chance to shine in the massive clash with Liverpool this weekend, depending on the severity of Odegaard's injury. But an indication that he will recover quickly has come from Norway, who have selected him for the forthcoming internationals.