Martin Odegaard has missed Arsenal’s last three matches with an ankle injury (Image: Getty)
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Martin Odegaard could be out until after the October international break. The Gunners captain has missed the club’s last three matches following an ankle injury he suffered while playing for Norway against Spain on international duty.
Odegaard missed Arsenal’s north London derby triumph against Tottenham and draws with Atalanta and Manchester City. He could remain absent for a further few weeks with the ankle injury caused by a challenge by City midfielder Rodri during the September international window.
Arteta has now revealed that Arsenal may not have the 25-year-old back until after October’s international break. That means Odegaard could be missing until the visit to Bournemouth on October 19, potentially seeing him sidelined for a further four matches.
The Spaniard said of Odegaard’s absence: “I think it will be a matter of weeks, but how long exactly I cannot tell.
“We might get a surprise but I think it’s unlikely he’ll be back before the international break.”
Arsenal are navigating a mounting injury dilemma with several stars set to miss the visit of Bolton. Jurrien Timber and goalscorer Riccardo Calafiori were both withdrawn during the 2-2 draw with City on Sunday.
There could also be an issue in goal with Arteta refusing to confirm whether David Raya would be available. On-loan shot-stopper Neto is cup tied having already played in the Carabao Cup for Bournemouth this season.
The 18-year-old summer signing Tommy Setford would be next in line to make his debut but has been struggling with an injury in recent weeks. Academy star Jack Porter, 16, was named on the bench for Arsenal’s Champions League clash with Atalanta last week and could be in line for a shock start.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has big selection decision to make ahead of Wednesday’s clash with Bolton (Image: Getty)
Arsenal also have goalkeepers Brian Okonkwo and Lucas Nygaard ready to make their senior debuts for the club.
Arteta kept his cards close to his chest when asked about the players who are set to miss Wednesday’s match, but admitted that several stars could be unavailable.
“I always prefer the facts to words than supposing things. Let’s see who is available tomorrow and then we can talk about dark arts,” the 42-year-old said. “Unfortunately there will be a few players not available. Tomorrow you will find out.”
Asked specifically about Raya, Arteta responded: “Let’s see how they are today. We’ll try to make a call on that if we believe that’s a possibility.”
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1952582/arsenal-martin-odegaard-injury