Former Tottenham striker Darren Bent has issued a scathing assessment of Martin Odegaard’s performances this season.

The Arsenal skipper has come in for criticism after his display in the Gunners’ 1-0 home defeat by West Ham, which looks to have ended any hope of the side claiming the Premier League this term.

Mikel Arteta’s men had the chance to close the gap on the leaders Liverpool with a win against the Hammers but their latest stumble opened the door for the Reds to move 11-points clear at the top of the standings.

This term has proved to be especially crushing for the north London club and their fans, who have seen the side finish as runners-up in the last two campaigns. And Bent believes that the Odegaard’s form has been a significant factor in what looks to be another unsuccessful season.

‘He was appalling against West Ham. He hasn’t been good since coming back from injury,’ the former Spurs striker told talkSPORT. ‘He had a little flirt where he looked like he might be back but two Premier League goals this season, three in total.

‘His performances haven’t been good enough. Don’t get me wrong, he’s a wonderful footballer but there’s too much flicks and these little scoop passes, just shoot!’