Captain Martin Odegaard
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard has delivered a welcome boost for club and country by declaring his shoulder injury “under control” while dismissing suggestions of tension between Arsenal and the Norwegian national team.
The 26-year-old midfielder picked up the knock during Arsenal’s 5-0 thrashing of Leeds United in late August, limping off after a spell of discomfort in his right shoulder. His early substitution sparked concerns over his fitness ahead of the Gunners’ looming top-of-the-table clash against Liverpool this weekend.
Speaking ahead of Norway’s international fixtures, Odegaard moved quickly to allay fears. “It hurt a lot, but now I got it under control and I feel ready,” he said. “It was never an issue [between Norway and Arsenal]. I talk a lot with the medical team at Arsenal, and they are happy with how it’s going.”
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The midfielder made his first start for Norway since the injury in a recent friendly against Finland, playing 45 minutes before being substituted at halftime. Reports suggested no lingering issues, with Odegaard himself confirming he is ready to step up his involvement.
Martin Odegaard
Martin Odegaard on international duty with Norway (Image credit: Getty Images)
His international call-up had stirred debate among Arsenal supporters and pundits, some of whom feared the risks of aggravating the injury. Norway’s coach stressed that Odegaard’s inclusion was carefully managed, though former Arsenal captain Tony Adams publicly questioned the decision. Odegaard, however, brushed aside outside criticism: “I don’t care what others think. For me, it’s about managing my body the right way.”
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The update will come as a relief to Mikel Arteta, whose side sit at the top of the Premier League table after a strong start to the season. Odegaard’s creativity and leadership remain pivotal to Arsenal’s title ambitions, and his availability for the Liverpool clash could prove decisive.
Despite the scare, Odegaard has rarely struggled with injuries during his career and has been a driving force in Arsenal’s resurgence since joining from Real Madrid. His latest remarks reinforce his determination to play through minor setbacks and continue leading the Gunners’ pursuit of silverware.
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