Arsenal have received a positive Martin Odegaard fitness update ahead of Norway's Nations League clash with Wales, with the Gunners captain named in the 23-man squad for Thursday night's match at Cardiff City Stadium.
Odegaard had been a doubt for the game after suffering an ankle injury during Norway's 2-1 defeat to Portugal on Sunday. The 27-year-old required treatment following a late challenge from Bernardo Silva in the closing stages of the match in Oslo, raising concerns over his availability for the rest of the international break.
Scans clear Odegaard of major damage
Scans carried out by Norway's team doctor Ola Sand showed no major damage to the ankle. Norway assistant coach Brede Hangeland revealed on Wednesday that Odegaard was recovering well, although he had initially missed training.
"Ola Sand has that under control. As far as I understood, there was nothing dramatic in those [X-ray] images," Hangeland said. "The most important thing is that the guy is feeling better. The images show a snapshot, while he's still recovering. And the progress is positive."
Odegaard was also reported to be in good spirits and experiencing less pain as Norway monitored his condition. Norway's medical staff have remained in contact with Arsenal throughout the situation, with head coach Stale Solbakken previously indicating that the club were being kept fully informed.
Odegaard named in matchday squad
The latest development is that Odegaard has been included in Norway's 23-man matchday squad for the meeting with Wales in Cardiff, which will come as a huge boost for the Gunners. UEFA's squad lists confirmed on Thursday morning that Odegaard is available to Norway, although his inclusion does not necessarily mean he will start the game.
Norway initially selected 25 players for this international camp, meaning two players have to be left out of each matchday squad. Odegaard's presence in the group will nevertheless provide a boost for Solbakken as Norway look to respond to their defeat by Portugal.
Wales, meanwhile, are hoping to register their first win of the campaign after losses to Portugal and Denmark in the opening two matches. Wales face Norway at Cardiff City Stadium tonight, with kick-off at 7.45pm.
