'No way': Norwegian manager releases major update on Martin Odegaard injury to leave Arsenal fans furious
Martin Odegaard could be fit to feature in Norway's Nations League matches in November, much to the anger of Arsenal fans.
The Gunners captain has been out since the beginning of September after suffering ankle ligament damage in international duty.
Arsenal They have struggled for creativity in his absence, causing the club to face criticism for their lack of free-flowing football.
But Norway Manager Stale Solbakken has issued a positive update on the 25-year-old's fitness, suggesting he could be called up to face Slovenia and Kazakhstan next month.
Solbakken commented on the former Real Madrid playmaker to Verdens Gang: “Everything indicates that things are going according to plan.
“Then it's about the last steps when you go to train with your rivals and in team training.
“It depends on how he responds, but we have a justified hope that he will be ready (to appear next month).
“I've spoken to him quite regularly. Now that he's starting to progress, it's easier, but it's no fun being injured.
“At the same time, he's had very few injuries, so it's probably a training issue for him.”
But the Gooners were not pleased with Solbakken's comments, taking to social media to express their anger at the prospect of Odegaard possibly risking another setback.
One disgruntled X fan posted: “With all due respect, fuck off.”
Another message: “Not a damn chance! Leave our captain alone!”
A third added: “If Arsenal allow him to leave then we are a non-serious club.”
This user then commented: “This is where Arsenal say NO. Odeggard must also refuse to go.”
Meanwhile, another simply stated: “No way.”
Odegaard himself insisted that he was close to returning to the pitch in his captain's notes for the program before Arsenal's game against Shakhtar.
Although he admitted that he has encountered minor setbacks in his rehabilitation process, which has delayed his long-awaited return.
He wrote: “I have been working very hard on my recovery in recent weeks, and missing important Champions League nights like this makes me feel more determined and motivated to return as soon as possible.
“I feel better every day, but when it comes to an ankle injury there are also ups and downs.
“Some days you feel great and other times you might have a little reaction. But overall it's getting better and I feel like I'm getting closer.”
Odegaard is one of several players who could be out of action for Sunday's crunch clash against Premier League leaders Liverpool.
Questions remain over Riccardo Calafiori and Jurrien Timber, while Willam Saliba is suspended after his red card at Bournemouth.
Although it is positive news, talkSPORT understands that Bukayo Saka is likely to win his physical battle after missing the last two games with a hamstring problem.