Arsenal star Martin Odegaard admitted his surprise after being awarded a prestigious prize in his home country of Norway.
The Norwegian Professional Football League’s Kniksens prize is the country’s highest footballing honour and every year goes to a person who has made a significant contribution to the Norwegian game.
At 23, club and country captain Odegaard is the second-youngest recipient of the award with only Erling Haaland receiving it at a younger age.
He stated: “I’m flabbergasted. I have to admit that. I didn’t expect this. It’s a bit surreal. It’s a great honour to receive this award.
“I've been through a lot. I broke through early and remember it like it was yesterday. Time flies. There have been ups and downs, but I feel like I'm making progress all the way.”
Cato Haug, the chairman of the Norwegian Premier League, described Odegaard as a “role model” in the country with “great loyalty” to both his national team and the Gunners.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said: “This is a special award that is highly valued in his country. Martin is humble, hungry and he loves what he does. That is why he is our captain.”
