Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard is stepping up his knee injury rehabilitation by joining Norway’s World Cup qualifying squad in a non-playing capacity, providing a boost for both club and country as they eye crucial upcoming fixtures.
Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard, who has been sidelined for over a month with a knee injury, has provided a significant boost by linking up with the Norway national team in a non-playing capacity to support their World Cup qualifying push.
According to a report from EPL Index, Arsenal has received a major injury boost as captain Martin Odegaard has joined the Norway national team camp despite being out of action for over a month with a knee injury.
The 26-year-old midfielder has travelled to work closely with the national medical staff and to lend his support from the sidelines during a critical time for the national side.
Although Odegaard is “not yet ready for match action,” his commitment to the group remains high. The report states that he “has made a habit of joining international camps even when unavailable,” reflecting his determination to remain at the heart of their World Cup qualifying push.
This determination is further evidenced by his actions last month when he flew out for Norway’s qualifier against Israel, celebrating with teammates after a 5-0 victory.
Norway is currently three points clear of Italy at the top of Group I, boasting a superior goal difference of plus 26 compared with Italy’s plus 10.
Qualification for the World Cup could be secured on Thursday if Norway defeats Estonia and Italy fails to beat Moldova.
Odegaard has openly spoken about his international ambitions, writing in Arsenal’s matchday programme last month:
“We know if we can beat Estonia at home we will be in a really good position to qualify for the World Cup next year.”
He added: “We’re getting closer but we have to finish the job. We’re going to stay calm until it’s done and hopefully we can make it because we feel it’s time for us.”
Arsenal supporters remain cautiously optimistic that the time spent with Norway will accelerate his rehabilitation ahead of the north London derby.