Martin Odegaard issues five-word verdict on Gabriel Martinelli after penalty miss

Arsenal’s captain Martin Odegaard expressed disappointment over his side’s lack of energy levels in their Europa League defeat to Sporting Lisbon on Thursday.

The Gunners were knocked out of the competition on penalties with Gabriel Martinelli missing the crucial spot kick for Mikel Arteta’s side in the shootout.

Although Granit Xhaka’s first-half goal gave Arsenal a 3-2 aggregate lead, it was short-lived as Pedro Goncalves scored a stunning 46-yard strike to level the scoreline.

Norway international Odegaard was brought on in extra-time to try and rescue the game, but it was not enough as the match eventually went to penalties.

Speaking to BT Sport after the game, Odegaard acknowledged that Arsenal did not play their best football and failed to match their opponents’ energy levels.

“We knew Sporting Lisbon were a good team and we were prepared for the game,” Odegaard said.

“It was more about us today; we didn’t play with the same energy we normally do. Now we have to look forward to the league, that’s all we can do.”

Despite the disappointment of crashing out of Europe, Odegaard emphasised that the team will show support for Martinelli after his penalty miss and will work together to bounce back in the league.

“We win and lose together. It doesn’t matter. When we’re winning, everyone is happy, when we lose, we have to pick up the spirit. We win and lose together,” he added.

The Gunners face Crystal Palace on Sunday in another crucial Premier League encounter as Arteta’s side look to take another step closer to their first league title since 2004.