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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta revealed on Friday that captain Martin Ødegaard may remain sidelined until after the November international break following his latest injury setback.
The Norwegian midfielder, 26, made unwanted Premier League history by becoming the first player ever to be substituted before half-time in three consecutive starts after suffering a knee injury against West Ham on October 3.
Ødegaard has also been troubled by a recurring shoulder issue earlier in the season.
“It’ll be weeks — there’s no definite return date yet, but he’s improving well,” Arteta said ahead of Arsenal’s clash with Fulham on Saturday. “He’s been very unlucky with his injuries this season.”
He added, “It might be after the international break, but we’ll see how his knee heals and how he handles the next stage of his rehab before confirming anything.”
Despite the skipper’s absence — along with injuries to Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, William Saliba, and Noni Madueke — Arsenal have surged to the top of the Premier League table, one point clear of Liverpool after seven matches, as they push to better last season’s third-place finish.
Viktor Gyökeres, signed to provide the goals Arsenal lacked, has found the net only three times in ten appearances and is currently on an eight-match goal drought.
Arteta, however, expressed confidence in the Swedish striker, praising his overall contribution: “He offers so much to the team, and reviewing the games, I’m very pleased with his performances,” he said.
“I told him from the start: the number nine at Arsenal must handle pressure even when not scoring. If you can’t, this isn’t the place for you. I want him to keep doing what he’s doing — once the chances come, the goals will follow.”
