Arsenal boss Martin Arteta defended his decision to take off captain Martin Odegaard during their 0-0 draw with Everton.
Arteta admits the midfielder wasn't injured when he came off.
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He said, "With Martin it was a tactical decision to try to change their rhythm on that side.
"I understand (fans being surprised). If Ethan (Nwaneri) comes in and he scores a goal, it’s a great substitution. If he doesn’t, you have taken your captain out. That’s football."
Asked about Odegaard's response, Arteta added: "The same reaction as (Gabriel) Martinelli and everybody. I am sure they wanted to play 90 minutes but that is why we have the subs, to try to help the team."