Arsenal evaluate Martin Odegaard and Leandro Trossard ahead of Everton
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta will make late fitness decisions on Martin Odegaard and Leandro Trossard before Saturday’s Premier League fixture against Everton.
The Premier League leaders are hoping to have an almost fully-fit squad available as they look to extend their advantage at the top of the table.
However, the potential absence of their club captain remains a significant concern for the north London side.
Odegaard faces prolonged absence
The Norwegian playmaker has been sidelined with a persistent knee problem since providing an assist during last month’s resounding derby victory over Tottenham.
Fears over a longer spell in the treatment room were recently amplified by Norway head coach Stale Solbakken.
The international manager suggested the midfielder might not return to competitive action until the end of March.
Trossard recovering from cup knock
Meanwhile, the Belgian forward is also a doubt after sustaining a knock during a recent FA Cup fifth-round victory at Mansfield.
That minor injury kept him out of the squad for Wednesday’s Champions League last-16 first-leg draw against Bayer Leverkusen.
Despite missing the European tie, the versatile attacker had returned to the training pitch on the eve of that fixture.
Arteta awaits medical clearance
Speaking ahead of the weekend clash at the Emirates Stadium, the Gunners boss offered a cautious update on his injured duo.
“Let’s see. We will have to wait and see, speak to the doctors on whether they are involved or not.”
