Mikel Arteta explains Ethan Nwaneri's substitution vs Forest

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed the reason behind Ethan Nwaneri's substitution against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League last night.

The 17-year-old has been the Gunners' best player in the past few games. He was again impressive against Forest, but was replaced late on as the club were pushing for the win.

The decision did not go well with the fans, but Arteta said that it was forced on him as Nwaneri was cramping and was really fatigued in the second half.

Arteta said: "He was cramping from minute 45, so we stretched him as much as we possibly could but we cannot lose the player and he was really fatigued."

Arsenal played out a goalless draw against Forest last night. They dominated proceedings, but lacked the cutting edge without a specialist striker fit.

The Gunners will now turn their attention to the Champions League round of 16. They are scheduled to face PSV on the road in the first leg next week.