Mikel Arteta is optimistic that captain Martin Odegaard will be back in action when Arsenal travel to Newcastle on Sunday, as the midfielder edges closer to full fitness following a shoulder problem.
Odegaard has been absent for the Gunners’ last three games in all competitions, having aggravated an injury sustained earlier this month.
The 25-year-old first hurt his shoulder after landing awkwardly in the 5-0 Premier League win over Leeds, and although he featured briefly during the subsequent international break with Norway, the issue resurfaced in the recent game against Nottingham Forest.
Arteta provided an encouraging update on Friday, confirming that Odegaard is set to take part in full training over the coming days with a view to featuring at St James' Park.
"Martin will be training with us the next two days, so hopefully he will be available for the game," the Arsenal boss told reporters.
Odegaard has been central to Arteta's plans this season, contributing both creativity and leadership from midfield.
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Elsewhere, Bukayo Saka is expected to return to the starting XI in the Premier League for the first time since last month.
The England international has already put a hamstring problem behind him and made a positive cameo in last weekend’s 1-1 draw against Manchester City.
Saka also featured in the midweek Carabao Cup win at Port Vale, where he played an hour before being withdrawn in a pre-planned change.
Despite a scare when he was caught by a heavy challenge in the second half, Arteta confirmed there are no fresh concerns over the winger.
"Yeah, nothing to report there," the Spaniard said.
"He played the games that we anticipated, he did well, he feels good, and he will be training the next few days."
However, Arsenal's injury list remains lengthy. Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz and Noni Madueke are all sidelined with knee problems and are not expected back until later in the autumn.
New signing Piero Hincapie is also nursing a minor groin complaint, although his absence is not thought to be long-term.
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