(4-4-2) Martin Ødegaard returns to complete the midfield of Rice and Merino”, predicted Arsenal line up versus Inter – as Arteta aims to rebound back from recent setback.
Martin Odegaard could be ready again for Arsenal’s Champions League game against Inter Milan this week.
Odegaard has not played for Arsenal since the 1-1 draw against Brighton at the end of August, when he sustained a’significant ankle ligament injury’ while on international duty with Norway.
The club captain has been back in light training for the last several weeks and is expected to be at the final stage of his recuperation. Arsenal are eager for a creative spark in midfield.
While Saturday’s defeat to Newcastle came too soon for him, Odegaard could be in contention to make his return in Milan on Wednesday night, the first of two crucial games for Arsenal this week, with a trip to Chelsea coming on Sunday.
Gabrie Magalhaes started with William Saliba in the heart of defence at St James’ Park on Saturday, despite knee concerns.
Mikel Arteta’s injury fears at the back are diminishing, but Riccardo Calafiori is expected to remain out while Takehiro Tomiyasu recovers from a knee ailment.
Thomas Partey has deputised at right-back in Arsenal’s last two league games while alternatives at the back have been limited, although Ben White might return after coming off the bench with a recent knock at the weekend.
Arsenal has taken seven points from a possible nine in the Champions League this season without conceding a goal, defeating Paris Saint-Germain and Shakhtar Donetsk at home after drawing goalless away to Atalanta.
Inter started their season with an impressive goalless draw at Manchester City before defeating Red Star Belgrade and Young Boys. Like the Gunners, they have yet to surrender in Europe this season.
