Odegaard Nears Comeback as Arsenal Eyes Top Spot

Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard is close to returning from an ankle injury, says manager Mikel Arteta. While Odegaard won't play against Newcastle, he may feature in the Champions League match against Inter Milan. Arsenal, currently third, has missed Odegaard's leadership and creativity.

Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard is nearing a return from his ankle injury, manager Mikel Arteta confirmed on Friday. After nearly two months on the sidelines, Odegaard's recovery is in its final stages, although he won't participate in Saturday's Premier League clash against Newcastle United.

Arteta didn't entirely dismiss the possibility of Odegaard featuring in Arsenal's Champions League encounter with Inter Milan the following Wednesday. 'Now is the stage where he is going to do certain work with us. Let's see how he deals with pain and if his movement is natural enough,' Arteta stated.

Despite missing the creativity and leadership of Odegaard, Arsenal remains hopeful for his return. In the absence of their captain, the team has picked up only one point from their last two matches, trailing league leaders Manchester City by five points. Additionally, Arteta noted that left-back Riccardo Calafiori will miss the Newcastle game, but defender Gabriel could play if he trains well.

(With inputs from agencies.)