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Arsenal's manager expressed serious concern about Martin Ødegaard's knee injury following Ødegaard was forced off in a 2-0 triumph that kept their challenge on Liverpool of the English top flight.

Twin Injury Concern for The Gunners

Ødegaard departed the Emirates wearing support on his left knee following a clash involving an opponent in the first period.

The England midfielder also had to be withdrawn in the second half due to a back problem, raising questions on his availability for upcoming internationals.

"He suffered a collision knee-to-knee, and straight away he was uncomfortable," Arteta remarked. "I've spoken with him, he's not positive about it, he's wearing a brace. We must wait and see of the medical examination."

Concerning Trend for Skipper

The condition of Ødegaard – who became the first footballer ever in the Premier League to come off in three successive matches in the first half – is causing significant concern for Arteta.

"We haven't had him from the beginning of the season due to various issues, the shoulder twice followed by this latest knock," he added. "He's our captain, he's a footballer that gives us unique qualities, particularly in the final third."

Declan Rice Also Substituted

On the subject of Rice, the boss added: "He's not all right because he asked me to come off, so that's a shame. He felt discomfort in his back area and he could not carry on, a situation quite rare for Declan, so we'll have to assess him and see how he is."

Bukayo Saka discussing Squad Improvement

Bukayo Saka, who scored a penalty on his 200th top-flight game, emphasized the team's resolve to rectify past home defeats versus the Hammers.

"It demonstrated the progress we have made," he said. "We wanted to put that right today. We're aware of our ability we possess in attack and we know if we keep a shutout it is more than likely we will win the game."

The Hammers' New Challenge

The new West Ham manager, in charge of only his second game after taking over from his predecessor, confronts a difficult job as the team remaining in the bottom three.

"The past week was full of fresh tests, new things, a lot of changes," he acknowledged. "I think the international break is going to be extremely beneficial for settling down thoughts and concentration, yet every facet of the game we have to address."