Norway manager Stale Solbakken remains optimistic about the possibility of selecting Martin Odegaard for the upcoming October international break, despite the Arsenal captain nursing ankle ligament damage. Odegaard sustained the injury during the recent September round of internationals. Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta admitted last week that it is likely Odegaard will be out “for a while” and expressed doubt about his availability for Norway’s October fixtures. Arteta did not provide a definitive timeframe for Odegaard’s return but expressed hope that it would not be months.
Solbakken has not ruled out Odegaard from participating in the UEFA Nations League games against Slovenia and Austria on 10 and 13 October respectively, showing his determination to have his skipper available. “We plan with and without him,” said Solbakken to Norwegian press agency NTB.
The Norway national team doctor, Ola Sand, is also in contact with Arsenal regarding Odegaard’s injury status.
If called up for international duty, Odegaard would need to report by Monday 7 October, which is only 12 days away. The squad announcement will be made in advance of that date, leaving little time for the 25-year-old to recover fully.
After their Carabao Cup match against Bolton Wanderers on Wednesday night, where goalkeeper Jack Porter may make his debut as emergency cover due to David Raya’s injury, Arsenal will face Leicester City, Paris Saint-Germain, and Southampton before the international break.
Arteta has been open about how significant losing Odegaard is for Arsenal. He described him as their captain and one of their key players who has consistently performed well over the past few seasons. Arteta sees this situation as a test for the team to show their adaptability and effectiveness without relying solely on one player.
there is still hope that Martin Odegaard may recover in time to represent Norway during the October international break despite his ongoing ankle ligament damage.
