Martin Odegaard: Arsenal Handed Major Injury Boost As Norway Star Named In Squad

Arsenal have received encouraging news over Martin Ødegaard's fitness after the midfielder was named in Norway's squad and subsequently returned to training following an ankle injury suffered against Portugal.

Arsenal have been handed a significant boost over Martin Ødegaard after the club captain remained part of Norway's international plans despite an ankle problem sustained during the Nations League.

Ødegaard was included in Ståle Solbakken's 25-man Norway squad for the international fixtures, with the Norwegian Football Federation confirming his selection alongside the country's established senior players.

The midfielder then suffered an ankle injury during Norway's 2–1 defeat by Portugal, raising concerns over his availability. However, subsequent medical checks reportedly found no major damage, while his return to training provided another positive sign for Arsenal.

Ødegaard Included Despite Fitness Concerns

Ødegaard's inclusion in Norway's squad initially represented positive news for Arsenal, particularly given the importance of the midfielder to both club and country.

The 27-year-old was selected for Norway's four Nations League fixtures against Denmark, Portugal and Wales, with the Norwegian FA listing him among the squad's midfield options.

His involvement also underlined his importance to Solbakken's plans as Norway continued its international campaign following the summer's World Cup.

Ankle Injury Raises Fresh Arsenal Concern

The positive squad news was followed by an injury scare when Ødegaard was caught by a late challenge from Bernardo Silva during Norway's 2–1 defeat to Portugal.

The Arsenal captain was left requiring treatment and was subsequently seen limping after the match. He also expressed his frustration over the challenge, describing it as something he did not understand.

The incident immediately raised concerns at Arsenal, where Ødegaard's availability remains important to Mikel Arteta's plans.

Scans Provide Encouraging Update

Norway's assistant coach Brede Hangeland later revealed that medical checks had not shown any major damage to Ødegaard's ankle.

Hangeland said the Norway medical team had assessed the midfielder and that the images were not considered dramatic. He also noted that Ødegaard was feeling better, with his recovery progressing positively.

That update offered Arsenal some reassurance after the initial concern surrounding the injury.

Return To Training Offers Further Encouragement

Ødegaard initially missed a Norway training session because of the ankle problem, leaving his availability for the next international fixture uncertain.

However, he subsequently returned to training with the Norway squad, a development that provided a further indication that the injury was improving. His return did not automatically guarantee selection for the next match, but it represented a positive step in his recovery.

Norway have also maintained communication with Arsenal regarding his condition, with Solbakken confirming that medical updates were being shared with the Premier League club.

Arsenal Will Be Monitoring The Situation Closely

The update will be particularly welcome for Arteta given Arsenal's wider fitness concerns. Kai Havertz and Declan Rice have also been among the players affected during the international period, adding pressure to the squad's depth ahead of the return to domestic football.

Arsenal are due to resume their Premier League campaign against Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium on October 10, giving Ødegaard time to continue his recovery before that fixture.

Norway Involvement Could Aid Ødegaard's Recovery

For Ødegaard, remaining with Norway provides an opportunity to continue working under the national team's medical staff while gradually rebuilding his fitness.

The key issue for Arsenal will be ensuring that his return is managed carefully rather than rushing him back before the ankle has fully settled.

With scans reportedly showing no major damage and the midfielder back in training, the latest developments represent a welcome change from the initial uncertainty. Arsenal will now hope their captain can complete his recovery and return to full fitness ahead of the Premier League's resumption.