Martin Odegaard did something no other player in Premier League history has during Arsenal 2-0 West Ham

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Martin Odegaard suffered a nightmarish afternoon as Arsenal recorded a 2-0 win over West Ham.

The Norwegian once again experienced problems with his shoulder, an issue which has already kept him out of wins over Athletic Bilbao and Port Vale, as well as the 1-1 draw against Manchester City.

Martin Odegaard only lasted 30 minutes before being forced off, and the early substitution actually saw Premier League history be made at Arsenal.

Martin Odegaard becomes first Premier League player to be withdrawn before half-time in three consecutive starts

The Arsenal No.8 was also forced off through injury in the 1-0 defeat against Liverpool and the 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest.

As a result, Odegaard has now become the first player in Premier League history to be withdrawn before half-time in three consecutive starts, according to Opta.

Fortunately for the sake of his reputation, the Norway international can defend himself by putting these substitutions down to injury rather than poor performances.

Mikel Arteta must give Ethan Nwaneri a chance to shine as Martin Odegaard needs a proper rest

Odegaard has clearly been rushing back from his shoulder injuries suffered earlier this season, and given his importance to the team, Mikel Arteta – who fans blame for the setback – needs to allow his captain to recover properly this time.

Fortunately, Arsenal have a precocious talent ready to deputise in Ethan Nwaneri.

The Arsenal No.22 was only afforded 15 minutes of action against West Ham, and is yet to start in the Premier League this season despite signing a new contract in August which runs until 2030.

Nwaneri wanted assurances over playing time before penning that deal, and now is the time for Arteta to trust the 18-year-old.

Nwaneri – who Jack Wilshere wants to see used centrally – is an incredible talent, and if he fails to receive a start while Odegaard recovers, it could spark some disillusionment in the Hale End graduate.