Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard limped off with an ankle injury during Norway’s 2-1 victory over Austria in the UEFA Nations League, as Erling Haaland scored a late winner.
The midfielder suffered the injury after a challenge by Christoph Baumgartner midway through the second half, leaving him in visible discomfort.
Odegaard’s injury now raises concerns ahead of Arsenal’s crucial North London Derby against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, with the Gunners already set to be without Declan Rice due to suspension.
“It looked painful in the locker room,” said Norway head coach Stale Solbakken. “We know it’s an ankle sprain. If we’re lucky, it might not be too serious, but I doubt [Arsenal manager Mikel] Arteta will be calling to thank me tonight.”
READ MORE: Antoine Semenyo: Haaland is the kind of striker I want to be
Norway had taken the lead through Felix Myhre, but Austria equalized via Marcel Sabitzer in the first half. With the match seemingly headed for a draw, Haaland stepped up late in the game, showing his strength and composure to score the decisive goal.
As Arsenal prepare for the derby, they also have critical fixtures looming, including a Champions League clash with Atalanta on 19 September and a Premier League showdown with Manchester City on 22 September. Odegaard’s fitness will be closely monitored ahead of these key matches.
