Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka has revealed that he decided to pass the penalty kick to team captain Martin Odegaard during the Gunners’ impressive 5-2 victory against West Ham due to the connection between them.
With Arsenal already leading 2-0, courtesy of goals from Gabriel Magalhaes and Leandro Trossard, Saka was fouled inside the penalty area. He chose to allow Odegaard to score his first goal of the season, highlighting the strong relationship that exists between them.
Bukayo Saka later stepped up to convert a second penalty awarded before halftime, which contributed to Arsenal’s fifth goal. When discussing his decision, he stated, “Odegaard wanted to take the penalty… I’m more than happy to give him the ball. He always gives me the ball, so we have a good connection. Martin is a top player; he’s been performing exceptionally well since his return.”
Meanwhile, Arsenal legend Martin Keown has offered insights to manager Mikel Arteta regarding what the Gunners need to do to be contenders in the Premier League title race. Currently, Liverpool holds the lead, with Arsenal, Manchester City, and Chelsea closely following.
Arsenal’s recent victory over West Ham propelled them past Manchester City into second place. As City prepare to face Liverpool, Keown emphasized the importance of Arsenal winning multiple games in the coming weeks. He advised, “To challenge for the title, they need to secure seven or eight wins before January. That’s essential. You need to go on a remarkable winning streak.”
Keown noted that Arsenal are currently in a challenging stretch, with only one of their next seven matches set to be at home. He added, “This is a pivotal moment for both Liverpool and Manchester City. Arsenal must focus on maintaining their form, staying healthy, and ensuring that all players are available.”