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William Gallas has backed Martin Odegaard\u2019s decision to donate last weekend\u2019s penalty against Bournemouth to Kai Hevertz. <\/p>\n
Arsenal news, exclusives and analysis<\/p>\n
The summer signing from Chelsea has endured a difficult start to his Gunners career following his big-money move but did at least get off the mark in a 4-0 victory over the Cherries. <\/p>\n
Mikel Arteta was branded \u2018unprofessional\u2019 by former Liverpool defender Steve Nicol for allowing Odegaard to pass the buck but Gallas believes it highlighted positive spirit and togetherness within the Arsenal squad.<\/p>\n
\u2018I thought that was a good decision,\u2019 Gallas told Gambling Zone. \u2018That was the decision of a gentleman. Martin Odegaard is a gentleman. <\/p>\n
\u2018That shows you how concerned Odegaard is about his team mates and the relationship that he has with them.<\/p>\n
\u2018He knows that it has been a difficult start to Havertz\u2019s Arsenal career. Havertz didn\u2019t score any goals in his matches so far. It was the perfect thing for a captain to do in that situation.\u2019<\/p>\n
The Gunners face an acid test of their title credentials this weekend when they host champions Manchester City without, in all likelihood, the services of Bukayo Saka who sustained an injury against Lens in midweek. <\/p>\n
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Minus their star winger, Gallas has implored Odegaard to assume more responsibility and put his stamp on a match of major significance. <\/p>\n
\u2018I think in this match, Odegaard needs to show his quality,\u2019 Gallas added. \u2018We all know how talented he is, but these are the games where you\u2019re looking for your big players to step up and make the difference. <\/p>\n
\u2018These are the type of games where the top, top players show everyone that they are the best.<\/p>\n
\u2018We\u2019re looking for him to make a decisive contribution. He needs to score a goal, make an assist, or do both. It\u2019s simple really. <\/p>\n
\u2018That\u2019s what we judge the biggest midfielders on that have played in the Premier League in the past. If Martin Odegaard wants to be considered among the very best, then he needs to deliver in the most important games.\u2019<\/p>\n