Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard not yet close to returning from injury

The 26-year-old midfielder has been sidelined since October after sustaining an MCL injury during Arsenal's 2-0 victory over West Ham, a setback caused by a knee clash with Crysencio Summerville.

Odegaard's rehabilitation has now reached a critical stage. While he is not yet ready for competitive football, Solbakken revealed that an agreement has been reached with Arsenal allowing the midfielder to join Norway's camp in a non-playing capacity during the international break.

"It is steady. It is going in a steady direction but he is some distance away," said Solbakken.

Norway face Estonia and Italy in their final two World Cup qualifiers, and Odegaard is set to travel later this week to continue his recovery under the supervision of Norway's medical team.

Despite being unable to take the field, his presence is expected to offer vital leadership and morale to his teammates.

Solbakken emphasised the importance of the midfielder's involvement, noting that his influence off the pitch remains as valuable as ever.

Arsenal will take on bitter rivals Tottenham on 23 November. 

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