Mikel Arteta has defended his substitution of captain Martin Ødegaard in Arsenal's 0-0 draw against Everton by insisting it was a "tactical decision."
The Gunners were held in a stalemate at Emirates Stadium during which, despite chasing a goal, Arteta replaced influential playmaker Ødegaard in the 62nd minute for teenager Ethan Nwaneri.
Arsenal were unable to find a way past Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford and could fall four points behind second-placed Chelsea if they beat Brentford on Sunday.
"With Martin it was a tactical decision to try to change their rhythm on that side," Arteta said.