Why Odegaard took penalty vs Crystal Palace instead of Saka

Arsenal captain, Martin Odegaard in a recent statement gave reason for taking the crucial penalty against Crystal Palace instead of Bukayo Saka.

Recall that Saka was Arsenal’s regular penalty taker last season, but missed against West Ham as their chances of winning the Premier League title race dropped.

However, against Crystal Palace on Monday night with the scores at 0-0, goalkeeper Sam Johnstone fouled Eddie Nketiah in the area.

While Saka picked up the ball initially, it was Odegaard who eventually played the ball and scored what became the winning goal.

“We have been taking [penalties] in pre-season a lot and I’ve scored all of mine.

“So I just asked him [Bukayo Saka] and he gave it to me. So I have to thank him for that one,” Odegaard said according to the UK Metro.

Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta had said he was not aware of the changes made by the captain.