Arsenal: Martin Odegaard joins up with Norway squad as Gunners captain nears injury return | OneFootball

Gunners’ skipper has been out for more than a month

Latest update: Martin Odegaard

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Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard will join up with the Norway squad this week to support his team-mates ahead of their World Cup qualifiers against Estonia and Italy.

The 26-year-old, who is the captain of Norway, will continue his rehabilitation with the national side while supporting his team-mates in a non-playing role.

Odegaard has been part of previous international camps even when not fit and is desperate for Norway to book a spot at next summer’s World Cup.

Last month, the Arsenal skipper travelled to Norway for their World Cup qualifier against Israel and celebrated with his team-mates in the dressing room after a 5-0 win.

Norway are on the cusp of qualifying for the World Cup next summer for the first time since 1998 after that victory over Israel.

They can qualify on Thursday if they defeat Estonia and Italy fail to beat Moldova. A draw would also be enough for Norway if Italy lose.

A victory for both sides would set up a showdown between the two teams on Sunday in the final match of Group I.

Sidelined: Martin Odegaard

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Norway are currently three points clear of Italy at the top of the group and have a huge advantage on goal difference. Norway’s goal difference currently stands at +26, with Italy on +10.

Odegaard has previously stressed his desire to play at the World Cup with Norway next summer.

“We know if we can beat Estonia at home we will be in a really good position to qualify for the World Cup next year,” he wrote in Arsenal’s matchday programme last month.

“We’re getting closer but we have to finish the job. We’re going to stay calm until it’s done and hopefully we can make it because we feel it’s time for us.

“It’s been too long. I’m very excited about it and hopefully we can finish the job next month.”

Odegaard has been out of action since early last month after injuring his knee during Arsenal’s 2-0 win over West Ham.

It was a blow for the midfielder, who was troubled by shoulder issue earlier on in the season.

Odegaard is one of several Arsenal players hoping to be fit for the north London derby next week.