Arsenal player Martin Odegaard disclosed that his successful penalty record during pre-season played a role in his decision. That is to refrain Bukayo Saka take Arsenal’s crucial penalty in last night’s victory over Crystal Palace.
In their pursuit of maintaining a perfect start to the new Premier League season, Arsenal had to exhibit resilience and determination. And ultimately, their victory was indebted to their captain’s composure from the penalty spot.
In the 53rd minute, Martin Odegaard confidently converted the penalty by sending Sam Johnstone the opposite way. Following a foul on Eddie Nketiah by the Palace goalkeeper.
Why did Arsenal captain Odegaard take this sudden decision?
Bukayo Saka was responsible for taking all of Arsenal Premier League penalties last season; however, he gained notoriety for missing a crucial spot kick during the decisive 2-2 draw against West Ham. This event marked the beginning of Arsenal’s downfall in the closing stages of the season.
In a pre-season friendly against Barcelona last month, the England international again missed the target. And even though he successfully found the net in the Community Shield triumph against Manchester City, Martin Odegaard opted to take charge at Selhurst Park. His decision was from his own consistent penalty record. Having converted penalties against teams such as Manchester United, Monaco, and City in the past.
Arsenal Manager Mikel Arteta, on the other hand, expressed his surprise at Saka’s decision to relinquish the responsibility of taking the penalty to Odegaard.
Mikel Arteta said:
“I have no clue, it’s about leadership of players. And if they felt it was the right thing to do, for me I’m fine.”
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