Why Martin Odegaard was a last-minute scratch from Arsenal’s XI to face Nurnberg

An explanation for the last-minute absence of Martin Odegaard from Arsenal’s starting line-up to face Nurnberg has been provided on Thursday evening.

For those not aware, Arsenal are currently locked in action.

After being held to a 1-1 stalemate by Watford in their opening pre-season friendly last week, the Gunners have stepped up their preparations for the new campaign once more, courtesy of a meeting with aforementioned German outfit Nurnberg.

Mikel Arteta, for his part, opted for a strong starting XI at the Max-Morlock-Stadion, featuring the talents of the likes of Aaron Ramsdale, William Saliba, Thomas Partey, and Bukayo Saka.

Saka, meanwhile, has since gone on to open the scoring in the clash.

As alluded to above, though, whilst things are currently developing according to plan for Arsenal when it comes to the action on the pitch in Bavaria, the north Londoners’ evening to date has not been without its concerns.

This comes after a key member of Arteta’s squad - in the form of captain Martin Odegaard - was forced into a last-minute withdrawal from the club’s line-up.

Fabio Vieira was chosen to replace the Norwegian, culminating in immediate and altogether understandable panic across the Arsenal fanbase.

The Gunners themselves, though, have since provided an update on the situation.

And Odegaard’s problem does not appear to be a serious one, described, for the time being, as little more than ‘a knock’.

Explained: Why Tottenham’s move for Micky van de Ven could be hijacked

When Arsenal plan to announce Declan Rice amid West Ham frustrations