Martin Odegaard hits back at criticism for 'over-celebrating' Liverpool win

Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard has come out in defence of his team's post-match celebrations following their crucial 3-1 win over Premier League title rivals Liverpool on Sunday.

The win, which reignited the Gunners' title aspirations, helped to close the gap on league leaders Liverpool. However, the manner in which the side celebrated the victory drew criticism from a number of high-profile pundits, including Sky Sports' Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville.

The duo took issue with the exuberant celebrations of Mikel Arteta's side, with the criticism mainly centred around the manager's touchline antics and players' decision to revel in the victory on the pitch after the final whistle.

Mikel Arteta, visibly elated after goals from Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard secured all three points, joined his team in celebrating with the fans inside the Emirates Stadium.

Then, moments later, Odegaard shared a wholesome moment with club photographer and lifelong Arsenal fan Stuart MacFarlane, capturing celebratory images in front of the North Bank stand.

However, Carragher expressed his disapproval of Odegaard's actions, saying on Sky Sports: "Just get down the tunnel, you've won a game, it's three points. You've been brilliant, they're back in the title race, get down the tunnel. I'm serious, honestly."

Neville also hinted that there was an element of 'over-celebration', pointing out "a little bit of immaturity".

"We'll stay humble"

In response, in quotes reported in the Telegraph, Odegaard defended his team's post-match behaviour.

The 25 year-old said: "If you’re not allowed to celebrate when you win a game, when are you allowed to celebrate? We’re happy with the win, and we’ll stay humble."

Odegaard went on to stress the significance of the victory, adding, "It could have been eight points [behind], and it would look a lot more difficult then but we showed up, the fans were unbelievable. I think we all did this together. You see the club, how together we are, all the players, staff, supporters, everything. So yeah, brilliant to see."