Arsenal title charge rocked by fresh injury scare for inspirational captain

Arsenal are anxiously awaiting an update on Martin Odegaard after the midfielder was seen limping heavily following a damaging 1-1 draw against Brentford.

The Gunners captain was introduced at half-time by Mikel Arteta, replacing the ineffective Eberechi Eze to try and force a breakthrough.

His impact was immediate, helping spark the move that saw Noni Madueke give the visitors the lead just after the hour mark.

However, the night ended in frustration as Keane Lewis-Potter equalised for the Bees before the injury concern emerged post-match.

Fears grow over recurring issues

The Norwegian playmaker reportedly sustained the knock while desperately attempting to prevent Brentford’s equaliser.

Concern mounted significantly as the 27-year-old was spotted struggling through the mixed zone to board the team bus.

This development serves as a significant blow to the north London club, given their skipper has already missed 13 matches this campaign.

It compounds a growing misery for Arteta, who was already without William Saliba due to illness and Kai Havertz through a separate injury.

Pundits spot the decline

Brentford manager Keith Andrews admitted the introduction of the Arsenal number eight initially "changed the dynamic" of the contest.

Yet, Gunners legend Martin Keown noticed a sharp physical decline in the player following the collision.

"When the goal came they were in a really good moment, but then for me Odegaard gets injured, he didn’t look quite the same player after that."

Martin Keown, TNT Sports

Title race implications

The stalemate leaves the Premier League leaders four points clear of Manchester City, though the champions hold a game in hand.

Arteta’s men now face a distinct challenge managing their squad depth ahead of an FA Cup tie with Wigan Athletic on Sunday.

Crucial league fixtures against Wolves, a North London derby against Tottenham, and a clash with Chelsea loom on the horizon.