Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta provides fitness update on Martin Odegaard and Riccardo Calafiori

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided a fitness update on Gunners captain Martin Odegaard and 22-year-old defender Riccardo Calafiori. This comes ahead of their North London derby at the New White Hart Lane against Tottenham Hotspur this weekend (September 15).

Both players notably suffered injuries during the recently concluded international break, as they participated in the UEFA Nations League. During a 3-1 win over France on September 6, Italy were concerned when Calafiori had to be taken off the field after a crunching tackle from Ousmane Dembele on his calf.

It was a different situation for Odegaard as a harsh tackle from Austrian midfielder Christoph Baumgartner saw the Norwegian playmaker land awkwardly on his ankle. Norway went on to win the match 2-1, with Erling Haaland sealing the win in the 80th minute on September 9.

During a press conference in London Colney, where Arsenal's training complex is located, manager Mikel Arteta fielded questions from the press. He was particularly asked about the injuries to Calafiori and Odegaard on international duty. Speaking about the Arsenal defender, Arteta did not reveal much (via Football London):

"He’s another one where we’ll have to wait another day."

Speaking about Odegaard, though, he went into more detail:

"We need some more tests. Let’s see what happens in the next day or so. This afternoon probably. Let’s see the extent of the injury and how quickly we can get him back. Martin wants to be here every day but we have to wait and see.

"I leave that to the doctor. He’s willing and he wants to be present in every game. We need to make sure we know first how good he is or not. Players with 48 hours are always available. Let’s see what happens."

Arsenal have a number of injured players aside the duo. Gabriel Jesus, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Mikel Merino, and Kieran Tierney are all out injured. Declan Rice is also unavailable due to suspension.

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How could Arsenal line up to face Tottenham Hotspur?

Arsenal are missing a number of key players when they visit Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. However, they will be looking to snatch up all three points as the race for the Premier League title enters full swing.

David Raya will most likely remain in goal, with the usual back four of Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel, and Jurrien Timber in front of him. However, in midfield, they may have to start an unlikely candidate in Jorginho, alongside Thomas Partey.

Kai Havertz may end up in midfield in the playmaker role, especially with Odegaard out. On the right flank, Bukayo Saka remains an option, while Leandro Trossard could play as the main striker. Arteta may opt for new signing Raheem Sterling over Gabriel Martinelli for the left flank.