Radio pundit heaps praise on James McAtee likening him to Arsenal star

Originally posted on Sheff United Way | By Jake Staniland | Last updated 11/16/23

Former Blades striker Carl Asaba has drawn parallels between Manchester City loanee James McAtee and Arsenal playmaker Martin Odegaard.

Impressed by McAtee’s performances for Sheffield United this season, Asaba highlights McAtee’s significant contributions in the Championship last season scoring nine goals and providing three assists in 21 starts.

Recognising McAtee’s limited playing time prospects with Manchester City’s first team, Sheffield United’s decision to re-sign him on loan for the Premier League season is seen as a logical move.

McAtee, having made six starts and three substitute appearances in the Premier League, has already showcased his potential with one assist [SofaScore]. Asaba’s admiration for McAtee has recently seen him draw a comparison with the talented Norwegian international Martin Odegaard.

Speaking on BBC Radio Sheffield’s Football Heaven, Asaba stated:

“He’s a bonus player in that he plays midfield and you have an extra number in there but then he can just attack.

“He’s like Odegaard. You play him in midfield so he’s defending for you, he’s another body for them to try and navigate away from but he likes the ball 30 yards out because he can go past you like you’re not there.”

In his last two appearances James McAtee has really shown how he can impact games for Sheffield United in the second half.

He changed the total complexion of the game against Wolverhampton Wanderers, and he did the same against Brighton and Hove Albion.

With the Blades getting four points from their last couple of games, the squad’s confidence will have been lifted significantly. And with that should see players such as McAtee play with even more freedom.

This article first appeared on Sheff United Way and was syndicated with permission.

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