EPL: Arteta explains his decision to replace Odegaard in the most recent games

The reason behind Mikel Arteta’s substitution of midfielder Martin Odegaard in recent weeks has been made clear by the Arsenal manager.

Throughout 37 appearances, Odegaard tallied 15 goals and 8 assists, helping the Gunners just miss out on the Premier League championship last season.

However, the skipper of Norway has come under fire this season as his performances have clearly declined.

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In the 73rd minute, Arteta took Odegaard’s place as Arsenal defeated Sevilla 2-1 in the Champions League.

In the 78th minute of the match against Chelsea, Odegaard was substituted out.

Before this weekend’s home encounter against Sheffield United, Arteta was questioned on Friday on his decision to bench the 24-year-old.

“It may be related to performance,” he retorted. It may also have to do with strategies or how the game is changing to one that I believe another player will be better at.

“There are times when we need to invigorate the team because we’ve played a lot of games and need a lot of energy in the final minutes.”