Odegaard Confirmed Absent Several Weeks Due To Injury

JAKARTA - Arsenal's mainstay midfielder, Martin Odegaard, is confirmed to have to be sidelined for several weeks due to a knee injury.

This news was conveyed directly by manager Mikel Arteta on Friday, October 17, ahead of the match against Fulham this weekend.

"He will be out for a few weeks. There is no exact date when he can return, but the progress is quite good. It's a shame what happened to him," said Arteta, quoted by Arsenal's official website, quoting Antara.

We have to see how the recovery process will be, especially the condition of his knee. It's too early to confirm when he will return."

Odegaard, who had pulled over two weeks ago due to a problem on his shoulder, became Arsenal's fourth player to experience a knee injury.

Previously, Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, and Noni Madueke also experienced similar problems.

Despite being hit by a storm of injuries, Arteta confirmed that Martin Zubimendi and Ben White, who missed last Thursday's training session, were ready to appear against Fulham.

Meanwhile, Ecuadorian defender Piero Hincapie has the opportunity to return to the squad after being absent for a month due to a groin injury.

Arsenal still holds the best defensive record in the Premier League this season, only conceded three goals in seven games. But Arteta thinks Odegaard's presence remains crucial to keep the team's game balanced.

"He is very important to us. We haven't been able to play him since the start of the season, just like some other players. We need him back because his presence makes us a better team," said the Spaniard.

In addition to discussing Odegaard's condition, Arteta also provided support to Swedish striker Viktor Gyokores, who is Arsenal's top scorer in the Premier League this season with three goals, but has yet to score in the last six games in all competitions.

"He made a lot of contribution to the team. After reviewing the match, I am very satisfied with what he gave," said Arteta.

"I've said from the start that the number nine I wanted was a strong player even though I didn't score in six or eight games. If it can't be like that, it means we have to look for something else."

According to Arteta, high pressure and expectations are part of wearing the number nine at Arsenal.

"If you use number nine for Arsenal, you have to be ready. Six games without goals doesn't mean you can turn into another player," he said.

Currently, Arsenal have scored 14 goals in the Premier League with only one goal adrift of Manchester City as the most productive team.

The Gunners also lead the standings with a one-point advantage over defending champions Liverpool.