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Arsenal looked pretty good in their recent Premier League match against Leeds United. They scored five goals without reply, Viktor Gyokeres got off the mark, and they handed a memorable Premier League debut to 15-year-old Max Dowman.
However, it wasn't all sunshine and rainbows for the Gunners. While they never looked like losing the match, they were losing the psychological battle with Liverpool.
Both Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka, arguably the Gunners' two most important attacking players, were subbed off early through injury concerns. It remains to be seen for how long both players will be out of action but one thing's for sure - this concern couldn't have come at a worse time.
This weekend, Arsenal faces Liverpool in the final match before the international break. One of, if not both teams will drop points, which has huge implications on the title race (yes, even three games in). So, Arsenal wants their troops rallied up.
Arsenal handed Martin Odegaard injury boost before Liverpool trip
According to a report from Simon Collings, Arsenal has just been handed a serious boost. Martin Odegaard was named in the Norway squad for next week's international break. The international break consists of two games for Norway - A friendly against Finland, then a World Cup qualifier against Moldova.
While this doesn't outrightly mean Arsenal can call upon Odegaard this weekend, it does show that his injury isn't as serious as first thought. It essentially leaves the gamble in Arsenal's hands.
In most cases, the feeling would be 'it's not worth the risk, rest him,' but this weekend is an exception to the rule. Mikel Arteta needs to take all the risks he can to secure victory.
Liverpool has looked shaky in their first two games. Sure, they've been winning games, but they're nowhere near as assured as they were last season. Besides, Arsenal fans know too well that fighting to the last minute in every game leads to inevitable exhaustion in the long-run.
So, long story short, Liverpool is there for the taking. If the Gunners stand any chance of unlocking this leaky Liverpool defense, then Martin Odegaard dictating the play is their best bet.