Why was Bukayo Saka hooked at half-time? Mikel Arteta explains surprise substitution call in Arsenal's 6-0 rout of Sheffield United and gives update on Gabriel Martinelli after injury scare

Saka was forced to leave the pitch at half-time, while Martinelli was substituted in the 64th minute in Arsenal's 6-0 triumph against Sheffield United in the Premier League on Monday. Arsenal manager Arteta later clarified that the England international was not feeling right after the first half, which prompted him to substitute the player. Martinelli, on the other hand, suffered a cut after a challenge that left him unable to continue.

Speaking to reporters after the match, the Gunners boss said of his decisions to take off Arsenal's two star players: "Bukayo was feeling sick and not feeling right. With Martinelli, it was a slight cut so we have to see how he is."

The Gunners extended their Premier League winning streak to seven games as they thrashed The Blades at Bramall Lane. Captain Martin Odegaard opened the scoring for his side in the fifth minute before Jayden Bogle's own goal doubled their lead. Martinelli, Kai Havertz and Declan Rice also found the back of the net as the north London side took a 5-0 lead in the first half. Ben White then scored a sixth goal in the 58th minute to seal a statement win for Arteta's men.

The Gunners will be next seen in action on Saturday as they take on Brentford in a league clash before shifting focus to the Champions League three days later, where they face Porto in the second leg of their round of 16 tie.