Gunners skipper will not play in crucial Nations League double-header as he looks to return to full fitness after ankle injury

Odegaard's Inter cameo offered a tantalising glimpse into what Arsenal have missed but their approach needs refinement with our without him

Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard will not play for Norway in its upcoming Nations League matches so he can continue his rehabilitation after two months out injured.

Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard says he has “listened to my body” and returned to London after being ruled out of international duty for Norway.Odegaard started for the first time since August in Sunday’s 1-1 Premier League draw after being sidelined by an ankle injury.

Norway have confirmed that Martin Odegaard will return to Arsenal during the international break to continue rehabilitation on his ankle injury. Odegaard injured his ankle ligaments during the September international break and returned from an eight-week absence as a late substitute in Arsenal’s 1-0 defeat to Inter in the Champions League last Wednesday.

Leon Osman and Jermaine Defoe discuss Martin Odegaard’s return from injury as the Gunners showed much more endeavor and creativity with the Norwegian international back in the fold.

Arsenal suffered in the absence of Martin Odegaard during his injury. His return to the field against Chelsea showcased exactly what the Gunners had been missing with his assist for Gabriel Martinelli providing tangible evidence.

Arsenal have revealed the reason for Martin Odegaard’s absence. Arsenal have been without club captain Martin Odegaard for the last four matches in all competitions and he hasn’t featured for the Gunners in the Premier League since a 2-2 draw against Chelsea on 21 October.