Arteta reveals whether Odegaard will play in Arsenal’s game against Liverpool

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed that he is not expecting captain Martin Ødegaard to be available for the Gunners’ crucial Premier League clash against Liverpool on Sunday. Speaking to Norwegian broadcaster TV 2, Arteta provided an update on Ødegaard’s injury status, stating that the midfielder is still not ready to return to action.

Ødegaard has been sidelined for several weeks due to an ankle injury sustained while on international duty with Norway. His absence has been felt in Arsenal’s midfield, as the 25-year-old has been a key player for the team this season, both in terms of creativity and leadership. Despite his ongoing recovery, Arteta suggested that it is unlikely Ødegaard will be fit in time for Sunday’s game against Liverpool.

This news comes as a blow to Arsenal, who are currently in third place on the Premier League table with 17 points from eight games. While the Gunners managed to secure a 1-0 victory over Shakhtar Donetsk in the UEFA Champions League earlier this week, the absence of their captain for the upcoming fixture against Liverpool will pose a significant challenge.

Arsenal will need to rely on their squad depth to cope with Ødegaard’s absence, with players like Declan Rice, Kai Havertz, and Jorginho expected to take on increased responsibility in midfield. The Gunners are looking to maintain their strong form and keep pace with the league’s top teams, but the absence of Ødegaard could make the task more difficult against a Liverpool side that is also aiming for a top spot.

As Arsenal prepare for Sunday’s showdown at the Emirates Stadium, Arteta and the squad will be hoping for a strong performance despite the continued absence of their captain.