Just days after an impressive display in the Champions League, Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard has made an unwanted piece of Premier League history.
During Arsenal’s 2-0 win over West Ham on Saturday, Ødegaard had to be substituted after just 30 minutes due to a knock to his knee. This made him the first player in Premier League history to be taken off before half-time in three consecutive starts.
A Frustrating Start to the Season
The 26-year-old Norwegian has struggled with injuries this season. He had already come off early in two previous matches:
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Against Leeds (August 23), he was subbed off in the 38th minute with a shoulder problem.
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Against Nottingham Forest (September 13), he was taken off in the 18th minute with the same shoulder issue.
This time, against West Ham, Ødegaard went knee-to-knee with Crysencio Summerville and couldn’t continue. He was seen wearing a brace on the bench afterwards.
Arteta Reacts to Injury Setback
Speaking after the match, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said:
“I just spoke to him. He’s not feeling positive about it. We’ll have to wait and see what the doctors say, but we haven’t had much luck with him this season.”
Arteta confirmed that injuries have kept Ødegaard out for most of the season so far – first his shoulder, and now his knee.
“He’s our captain and gives us something different, especially in attack. Hopefully, it’s not too serious.”
Squad Depth Helps Arsenal Cope
Despite losing their captain, Arsenal showed their strength in depth. Martin Zubimendi came on to replace Ødegaard and started the move that led to Declan Rice’s goal.
Even when Rice later went off with a back problem, Arteta was able to bring on Mikel Merino and young talent Ethan Nwaneri.
Arteta said:
“It’s not ideal because we had a clear plan, but the good thing is we can bring in other players and still be very effective.”
Ødegaard’s Tough Run
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Match vs Leeds (23 Aug): Subbed off in 38th min – shoulder injury
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Match vs Forest (13 Sep): Subbed off in 18th min – shoulder injury again
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Match vs West Ham (4 Oct): Subbed off in 30th min – knee knock
Ødegaard has played just one full match since the season began – the midweek Champions League win against Olympiakos.
Looking Ahead
Ødegaard made 45 appearances last season and is normally a key player for the Gunners. Arsenal fans will be hoping the latest injury is not serious, and that their captain can return soon without breaking more unwanted records.