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Mikel Arteta raises hopes of Arsenal securing permanent deal for Martin Odegaard as he hails 'influential, intelligent and talented' star after draw with West Ham... and fans keep begging club to keep him

Mikel Arteta has raised Arsenal fans' hopes of keeping Martin Odegaard beyond his initial loan spell by heaping praise on the Real Madrid youngster.

Odegaard arrived in north London in January in a bid to galvanise Arteta's squad, and he has since been the standout performer.

He was central to the Gunners' comeback from three goals down to secure a draw against West Ham on Sunday, and Arteta was effusive with his post-match praise.

Martin Odegaard was the shining light for Arsenal in their huge comeback at West Ham
Mikel Arteta heaped praise on the 'intelligent' and 'influential' Norwegian (second right)
Piers Morgan was leading the way with calls for Arsenal to sign Odegaard permanently

When asked if he was a 'leader' in the dressing room, the Arsenal boss said: 'Well, he's showing that I think from week one.