BREAKING NEWS : Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard will train on turf this week as he closes in on his return.

Martin Odegaard, the captain of Arsenal, will be

LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 31: Martin Odegaard of Arsenal warms up prior to the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Brighton & Hove Albion FC at Emirates Stadium on August 31, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

training on grass this week as he approaches his return to action. This will provide Mikel Arteta with a much-needed boost in the midst of an injury crisis. The Norwegian midfielder has been unable to play since September, when he sustained an ankle injury while on international duty. Nevertheless, the Daily Mail reports that the 25-year-old is anticipated to commence grass-based training this week. Although it is uncertain when Odegaard will be able to participate in a match, it is possible that he will be able to return before the next international break. It is probable that he will be summoned to participate in Norway’s matches against Kazakhstan and Slovenia. Stale Solbakken, the manager of Norway, has expressed optimism that Odegaard, who placed 19th at the Ballon d’Or ceremony today, will be available. Arsenal will undoubtedly exercise caution regarding Odegaard’s participation in international duty so soon after his return, as their fixture schedule is quite demanding. Nevertheless, his inclusion would provide the Gunners with a substantial advantage as they prepare to play critical matches against Chelsea, Inter Milan, and Newcastle United. Meanwhile, there are lingering concerns regarding the physical condition of Gabriel Magalhaes and Jurrien Timber. Magalhaes sustained a knee injury during the draw with Liverpool and will endure a scan on Tuesday to ascertain the severity. Arsenal will closely monitor his progress, despite initial indications that the injury is not severe. Timber, who has recently recovered from a muscular issue, encountered calf discomfort subsequent to the Liverpool match. Nevertheless, there is a glimmer of optimism that the problem was merely a spasm caused by the physical demands of the game. Additionally, Arsenal is anticipating additional evaluations regarding Ricardo Calafiori’s knee injury sustained during the most recent Europa League victory over Shakhtar Donetsk. The young defender is anticipated to be incapacitated for a period of several weeks, although the exact nature of the injury is still being ascertained. Arsenal’s capacity to contend on multiple fronts is diminished by their numerous injury concerns. Edu Gaspar, the sporting director, has been criticized by fans for failing to adequately reinforce certain aspects of the team. The supporters will be eager to witness the club’s recovery after the disappointing loss to AFC Bournemouth and the draw with Liverpool, which have left a bitter taste in their mouths. It is anticipated that Odegaard will be present to provide assistance to the team.