Arsenal Face Fresh Injury Blow as Odegaard Limps Off After Brentford Stalemate
Arsenal have been dealt a significant injury concern with captain Martin Odegaard picking up a knock during Thursday's 1-1 Premier League draw against Brentford. The Norwegian midfielder, who has already missed 13 matches this season due to fitness issues, was seen limping heavily post-match, compounding the Gunners' frustration after dropping points at the Gtech Community Stadium.
Odegaard's Impact and Immediate Setback
Introduced at half-time by manager Mikel Arteta in place of Eberechi Eze, Odegaard instantly galvanised Arsenal's performance. His influence was evident as Noni Madueke broke the deadlock just after the hour mark, putting the visitors ahead. However, Brentford equalised ten minutes later through Keane Lewis-Potter, with Odegaard sustaining the injury while attempting to prevent the goal.
The 27-year-old playmaker struggled visibly after the incident, hobbling through the mixed zone and onto the team bus, casting serious doubt over his involvement in Arsenal's upcoming schedule. This comes amid an already stretched squad, with William Saliba absent due to illness and Kai Havertz sidelined by a new injury.
Upcoming Fixtures and Title Race Implications
Arsenal now face a critical period without their skipper, hosting Wigan Athletic in the FA Cup fourth round on Sunday before travelling to Wolves on Wednesday to resume their Premier League title charge. Further tests await with the North London derby at Tottenham and a home clash against Chelsea.
The draw leaves Arsenal four points clear of Manchester City in second place, a gap that could extend to seven with a win at Wolves, although City hold a game in hand. Arteta remained philosophical, stating, "You can only focus on what you have to do, and try to do that in the best possible way."
Opposition and Pundit Reactions
Brentford boss Keith Andrews acknowledged Odegaard's transformative effect, noting, "Martin Odegaard changed the dynamic of the game and how they played." Meanwhile, Arsenal legend Martin Keown highlighted on TNT Sports that Odegaard's high pressing disrupted Brentford's midfield flow, but observed his performance dipped post-injury.
This setback underscores Arsenal's reliance on Odegaard, whose absence could jeopardise their pursuit of silverware in both domestic competitions.
