MIKEL ARTETA has given Arsenal fans a far from positive update on the fitness of Martin Odegaard.
The club captain was forced off during the 2-0 defeat to Aston Villa at the Emirates Stadium.
That result sees the Gunners hand the initiative to Manchester City in the race for the Premier League title.
To matters worse, Odegaard picked up an injury in the match and was replaced in the 79th minute by Emile Smith Rowe.
Moments after the midfielder was taken off. Leon Bailey put the Villans ahead before Ollie Watkins sealed the result.
After the game, Arteta admitted that Odegaard was “unable to continue”.
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The manager also claimed that the Norweigian “felt something” while on the pitch.
Arteta did not specify the injury that Odegaard has suffered or whether he was a doubt for any upcoming matches.
Should the player be ruled out for a significant amount of time then it could be devastating for the remainder of the Gunners’ season.
Arsenal have a crucial Champions League second-leg tie against Bayern Munich this week.
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The sides go into the match level after the 2-2 draw at the Emirates last Tuesday.
Arsenal need to win the match but could be hindered without Odegaard’s creativity.
Arteta’s side also have six more Premier League fixtures in which to overtake Man City.
The club will have to hope that Pep Guadiola’s men slip up along the way if they want to win their first title since 2003.
Odegaard has impressed so far this season in all competitions.
The midfielder has scored ten goals and assisted seven more in his 41 appearances.
After the game, Arteta was also criticised by fans for three tactical errors against the Villans.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
