Good news for Arsenal with Martin Ødegaard injury | OneFootball

The captain’s scan on Sunday delivered some good news, but further tests are required.

Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images

Martin Ødegaard’s availability for Arsenal’s trip to Anfield next weekend hinges on the next few days after the outcome of a scan showed he had not suffered a serious injury to his right shoulder against Leeds.

Arsenal have, however, cancelled Ødegaard’s planned appearance at The Armoury on Monday.

In The Times, Gary Jacobs writes, “Arsenal have received a boost after early indications showed that the injuries suffered by Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard are not as bad as first feared.”

Simon Collings writes, “Both players were sent for scans on Sunday and Standard Sport understands the results of those are encouraging and positive.”

On Monday, Sami Mokbel reported, “Martin Odegaard’s shoulder injury not severe.”

He adds that “Arsenal will assess the players further this week” at which point they will have “a clearer timeline of how long they could be out.”

The captain fell awkwardly in the first half, attempted to continue for 20 minutes, but was eventually withdrawn, seemingly unable to move his arm freely.

For now, the possibilities span from a minor sprain, which could settle inside a week, to more complex ligament or joint damage that would force a longer lay-off.

Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images

Shoulder injuries of the lighter variety, including bruising or grade one sprains, can sometimes resolve quickly enough for a player to return within seven to 10 days, provided swelling is minimal and there is no structural damage.

More moderate problems, such as partial ligament tears, often rule a footballer out for between two and six weeks, with dislocations or full tears carrying a far longer recovery time.

Luckily, given how he was carrying his arm, and after initial scan results, it does not appear to be that serious.

In effect, if the scan shows nothing more than bruising or a minor sprain, the Norwegian may yet force his way into contention at Anfield.

If it reveals anything more substantial, his absence at Anfield is certain.