Jamie Redknapp questions Arsenal’s ‘strange’ penalty decision during 5-2 rout of West Ham – with both Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard on target from the spot

Jamie Redknapp has questioned Martin Odegaard‘s decision to not take both penalties in Arsenal‘s 5-2 win over West Ham. 

The Gunners secured a third consecutive victory across all competition and moved up to second in the Premier League table after a thrilling win at the London Stadium. 

Arsenal’s third goal of the match came through Odegaard, who converted from the spot after regular penalty taker Saka handed him the ball. 

However, Mike’ Arteta’s men were awarded a second penalty on the stroke of the break after Hammers goalkeeper Likas Fabianski was penalised for a punch on Gabriel. 

Saka resumed usual duties as he scored from 12 yards out to extend Arsenal’s lead. 

However, Redknapp believes Odegaard should have taken the responsibility again having already scored a penalty in the match. 

The Gunners captain converted first penalty after regular taker Bukayo Saka handed him the ball

Saka then resumed normal responsibility and took the second spot kick against West Ham 

‘I find it so strange. If you’re Martin Odegaard, scored one already, why don’t you want to take another one?’, Redknapp asked on Sky Sports. 

‘Saka was relatively lucky with his one and if you’ve you got one, you got a feeling. It’s like when you score a freekick and want to take it again. 

‘There’s more analysis more data goes into it now, everything when I watch Arsenal play there’s a reason behind it, I don’t quite know what the reason is.’

Meanwhile, ex-Arsenal forward Theo Walcott insisted Saka’s decision to let Odegaard take the first penalty was understandable. 

‘They’re both capable of doing it, keep them guessing. He gets Odegaard on the scoresheet, more and more confidence it breeds,’ Walcott said. 

‘They’re sharing the goals now but he’s obviously helping out Odegaard.’