Arsenalcaptain Martin Odegaard has withdrawn from Norway's squad for their upcoming friendlies against Israel and New Zealand after sustaining a medial collateral ligament injury in his left knee.
The 26-year-old midfielder picked up the problem during the first half of Saturday's 2-0 Premier League win over West Ham United at London Stadium.
He received treatment on the pitch and attempted to continue, but was substituted before the interval and replaced by Mikel Merino.
Norway confirmed on Sunday evening that Odegaard will not feature in their October internationals, while the Gunners said he will continue his rehabilitation at Sobha Realty Training Centre over the break.
MCL injuries can range in severity, from a mild sprain that requires just a couple of weeks' rest, to a more significant tear that could sideline a player for up to two months.
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"I just spoke to him. He's not positive about it," said manager Mikel Arteta after the game.
"He's got a brace on. We'll have to wait and see from the doctors, but we haven't been very lucky with that either.
"We haven't had him since the start of the season for one reason or the other. The shoulder twice and then this injury.
"We'll have to wait and see the extent of that injury, and we'll find solutions, but obviously he's our captain and is a player that gives us a completely different dimension with the things that he can do, especially in attacking."
Odegaard has been an important part of Arsenal's midfield as they look to mount a challenge on all fronts this season.
With a crucial run of fixtures ahead, including games against Fulham, Atletico Madrid and Crystal Palace, Arteta will be eager to have his captain available as soon as possible.
Meanwhile, Declan Rice is also a doubt for England's upcoming international games after he asked to be substituted due to a back problem.
"He is not alright because he asked me to come off. He had pain in his back and had to come off. It’s very unusual for Declan," said Arteta.
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