Arsenal could have Martin Odegaard available again for their Champions League showdown against Inter Milan this week.
Odegaard has not played for the Gunners since the 1-1 draw with Brighton at the end of August, suffering a ‘significant ankle ligament injury’ while on international duty with Norway.
The club captain has been back in light training for the last few weeks and is thought to be at the final stage of his recovery with Arsenal in desperate need of 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 huge games for Arsenal this week with a trip to Chelsea awaiting on Sunday.
Gabrie Magalhaes took his place at the heart of defence alongside William Saliba at St James’ Park on Saturday despite fears over a knee problem.
Mikel Arteta’s injury concerns at the back are easing, although Riccardo Calafiori is expected to remain unavailable with Takehiro Tomiyasu still working his way back from a knee problem.
Thomas Partey has deputised at right-back in Arsenal’s last two league games while options at the back have been short but Ben White could return after coming off the bench following a recent knock at the weekend.
Arsenal have taken seven points from a possible nine in the Champions League this season without conceding a goal, beating Paris Saint-Germain and Shakhtar Donetsk at home after being held to a goalless draw away to Atalanta.
Inter began their campaign with an impressive goalless draw at Manchester City, beating Red Star Belgrade and Young Boys. Like the Gunners, they are still to concede in Europe this season.
Predicted Arsenal XI to face Inter
Raya, White, Saliba, Gabriel, Timber, Saka, Merino, Rice, Martinelli, Havertz, Trossard
Where to watch Inter vs Arsenal? Kick-off time and TV channel
Inter vs Arsenal kicks off at 8pm on Wednesday, 6 November.
Live coverage is available on TNT Sports 1, with a live stream available on the Discovery+ app.
Arsenal news, exclusives and analysis
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