Arsenal take on Manchester City in today’s much-awaited Premier League clash at the Etihad Stadium.
The Gunners are presently top of the table with 70 points, six ahead of Man City, who have a game in hand.
They face a stern challenge against the Cityzens. A draw or a win would provide a huge boost in their title pursuit.
A defeat, on the other hand, could mean the title could be decided on goal difference if both teams win their remaining games.
Ahead of the encounter, Arsenal have been handed a timely boost with captain Martin Odegaard having travelled with the team to Manchester.
The Norwegian has suffered numerous injuries this campaign. He picked up a fresh knock to his knee against Sporting CP last week.
Odegaard subsequently missed the next two matches, but the £30 million signing could make his comeback against the Cityzens.
According to Arsenal insider HandofArsenal, Odegaard has been included in the Arsenal travelling squad.
A final decision will be made on his inclusion in the matchday squad to face Pep Guardiola’s side.
Odegaard’s return would be a huge boost
The 27-year-old has had an injury-plagued season with the Gunners. He suffered a couple of freak shoulder injuries earlier in the campaign before a long-term knee issue against West Ham United.
Odegaard has since been sidelined with a couple of knocks to his knee. The midfielder seems to have recovered on time to face Man City, and could make an appearance off the bench after his lay-off.
The Norwegian has had a mixed reception from the Gunners’ faithful this campaign, but we believe he is the best playmaker in the squad when it comes to ball retention and ability to link up play.
The former Real Madrid man also works hard off the ball, with his tireless high-pressing in the final third. This is an attribute that Eberechi Eze lacks, operating from the number 10 position for the Gunners.
Eze will continue as the attacking midfielder for Arsenal against Man City, but Odegaard could emerge as a solution off the bench for manager Mikel Arteta if the Gunners stay in the game until the hour mark.
Despite his injury woes, Odegaard has six goal contributions in his last nine league appearances for Arsenal. He could yet have a big say as the club seek a positive result against Man City today.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com