Norway manager Stale Solbakken does not think the injury suffered by Martin Odegaard on Wednesday night is a serious one, and hopes to have the Arsenal star back in action in time for Saturday’s game against Turkey.
Odegaard has been in hugely impressive form for the Gunners of late, but was forced off during half-time of his nation’s 3-0 win against Gibraltar after appearing to suffer an ankle issue.
However, speaking to reporters after the game, Solbakken provided a positive update about Odegaard with a statement which will come as a huge relief to both Mikel Arteta and Arsenal fans.
“It is not a serious injury,” Solbakken said. “I have big hopes that Martin will be fit for the game against Turkey on Saturday.”
And Odegaard himself added: “I twisted my ankle, but I think I will be fit for the game on Saturday.”
The 22-year-old is currently on loan in North London from Real Madrid, and has been a crucial part of the team in recent weeks, particularly impressing in the recent win against Tottenham and draw against West Ham.
It is believed the Gunners are keen on making his transfer a permanent one, and Odegaard has made it clear to Real he wants certain criteria to be met for him to stay in the Spanish capital, otherwise he will look to ply his trade elsewhere.
(Image: POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
“I haven’t thought about what’ll happen in summer,” he said. “The deal with Arsenal is until the end of season. We’ll see what happens this summer.
“I’ve said things before that I still stand for: Stability and development are key words.”
After the game against Turkey this weekend Norway take on Montenegro in a third World Cup qualifier on Tuesday before Odegaard will return to Arsenal ahead of their crucial clash against Liverpool on April 3.
