Jamie Redknapp has questioned Martin Odegaard’s choice not to take both penalties during Arsenal’s 5-2 victory over West Ham.
The Gunners celebrated their third straight win across all competitions, climbing to second in the Premier League table after an exciting match at the London Stadium.
Odegaard scored Arsenal’s third goal from the penalty spot after regular penalty taker Saka handed him the ball.
Later, a second penalty was awarded just before halftime when West Ham goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski was penalized for a punch on Gabriel.
Saka took the second penalty, converting from 12 yards to extend Arsenal’s lead.
However, Redknapp feels that Odegaard should have taken the responsibility again since he had already scored a penalty in the game.
Jamie Redknapp has questioned Martin Odegaard’s decision to not take both penalties
The Gunners captain converted first penalty after regular taker Bukayo Saka handed him the ball
Saka then took the second penalty against West Ham, resuming his usual duties.
“I find it so strange. If you’re Martin Odegaard and you’ve already scored one, why wouldn’t you want to take another?” Redknapp questioned on Sky Sports.
“Saka was somewhat lucky with his penalty, and when you score one, you often want to take the next. It’s like when you score a free kick and want to take another.”
He added, “There’s a lot of analysis and data involved now, and when I watch Arsenal, there’s usually a reason behind their decisions, but I’m not sure what that reason is.”
Meanwhile, former Arsenal forward Theo Walcott defended Saka’s choice to let Odegaard take the first penalty.
“They’re both capable, so it keeps the opposition guessing. By letting Odegaard score, it boosts his confidence,” Walcott said.
“They’re sharing the goals, but Saka is clearly supporting Odegaard.”