An explanation for the absence of star midfielder Martin Odegaard from Arsenal’s squad to face Liverpool this evening has been provided.

Anfield showpiece

Mikel Arteta’s men are of course set to return to action in short order.

After seeing Chelsea oust fierce rivals Tottenham in the competition’s other semi-final on Wednesday, the Gunners have made the trip to Anfield, for a Carabao Cup meeting with Liverpool.

The clash, rescheduled owing to a Covid-19 ‘outbreak’ in Jurgen Klopp’s squad last week, will see Arsenal head into proceedings eyeing a bounce-back performance, and result alike.

This comes after Arteta’s under-manned troops were ousted from English football’s either high-profile cup competition – the FA Cup – this past weekend, on the back of a shock 1-0 defeat at the hands of Nottingham Forest.

Why Martin Odegaard is missing from Arsenal’s squad to face Liverpool, and what it means for NLD

NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND – JANUARY 09: Eddie Nketiah of Arsenal reacts after missing a chance during the Emirates FA Cup Third Round match between Nottingham Forest and Arsenal at City Ground on January 9, 2022 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by James Williamson – AMA/Getty Images)

Odegaard latest

In turn, news that midfield metronome Granit Xhaka had returned to the matchday fold on Thursday evening was no doubt met with widespread approval on the part of the Arsenal faithful.

Whilst one option in the middle of the park marks his comeback, however, another misses out:

The player in question? As showcased above, Martin Odegaard.

Midfield string-puller Odegaard has of course been in stellar form of late, enjoying his most productive stretch since the Norwegian’s arrival from Real Madrid was made permanent in the summer.

In a hefty blow to all associated with Arsenal, though, it has since been confirmed that Odegaard has returned a positive test for Covid-19.

The 23-year-old therefore misses out not only tonight, but also, in all likelihood, in the Gunners’ North London Derby showdown with Tottenham in the Premier League this coming Sunday.

Elsewhere, Sead Kolasinac’s matchday absence has been attributed to a tight hamstring:

 

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