Arsenal: Mikel Arteta rules Martin Odegaard out of Liverpool showdown

Mikel Arteta is not expecting Martin Odegaard to be back for Arsenal’s title clash with Liverpool on Sunday.

Odegaard has been out since the middle of last month after injuring his ankle playing for Norway.

The Arsenal captain is progressing well in his recovery and he revealed in his programme notes ahead of Tuesday’s win over Shakhtar Donetsk he is “getting closer” to a return.

But asked if that could come this weekend against Liverpool, Arteta told Norwegian broadcaster TV2: “I don’t think so.

“Martin is frustrated and desperate to return. But hopefully this period will teach him some things that are important in life.”

Arsenal could also be without Bukayo Saka, Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori for the title clash (London Standard)

Odegaard has stepped up his recovery by running on an anti-gravity treadmill and Arteta has expressed optimism he will be back before next month’s international break. As well as Liverpool, Arsenal have trips to Chelsea, Inter Milan and Newcastle in that time.

“Martin copes with this period very well. I don’t think there are enough hours in the day for him to put in all the work he wants to do to come back,” Arteta added.

“He attends all meetings. He is involved in what happens around the team. He is our captain. Then it is his responsibility.

“He is doing everything he can to support the team during this period. He is not too far away now. He has not trained with the team yet, but he has a better feeling.”