The Norwegian midfielder has been sidelined since suffering an ankle injury on international duty in September. However, according to the Daily Mail, the 25-year-old is expected to begin training on the grass this week.
While it remains uncertain when Odegaard will be fit enough to feature in a match, he could return before the next international break. He will likely be called up for Norway’s matches against Slovenia and Kazakhstan.
Norway manager Stale Solbakken has expressed hope that Odegaard, who finished 19th at today’s Ballon d’Or ceremony, will be available.
Arsenal will undoubtedly be cautious about Odegaard’s involvement in international duty so soon after his return, given their demanding fixture schedule.
However, his presence would be a major boost for the Gunners as they face crucial matches against Newcastle United, Inter Milan, and Chelsea.
Meanwhile, concerns linger over the fitness of Gabriel Magalhaes and Jurrien Timber. Magalhaes sustained a knee injury during the draw with Liverpool and will undergo a scan on Tuesday to determine the severity.
While initial indications suggest the injury is not serious, Arsenal will be monitoring his progress closely.
Timber, who recently returned from a muscular problem, experienced calf tightness after the Liverpool match.
However, there is hope that the issue was merely a cramp related to the physical demands of the game.
Arsenal are also awaiting further assessment on the knee injury suffered by Ricardo Calafiori in the recent Europa League victory over Shakhtar Donetsk. While the extent of the injury is still being determined, it is believed that the young defender will be sidelined for several weeks.
Arsenal have several injury concerns, depleting a club hoping to compete on different fronts. Fans have criticised sporting director Edu Gaspar for not properly reinforcing areas of the team.
The disappointing loss to AFC Bournemouth and the draw with Liverpool have left a bitter taste in the mouths of the fans, and they will be desperate to see the club bounce back. Hopefully, Odegaard will be there to help the team.
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