The Norwegian star has been on the sidelines since early September when he picked up an ankle injury on international duty.

Odegaard has been training on the treadmill over recent weeks, but he is expected to be involved on the grass in the coming days.

He is unlikely to be available for the next couple of games, but could make his comeback before the November international break.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is likely to be extra cautious with the 25-year-old and Odegaard may not start until late November.

Arsenal have a tough schedule ahead with away games at Preston North End, Newcastle United, Inter Milan and Chelsea .

They could be without their talismanic captain for most of those outings, but Arteta still has a strong squad at his disposal.

Of course, they have not been helped by defensive injuries and hopefully, there is good news in that department this week.

Gabriel Magalhaes , Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori will be assessed ahead of the trip to Preston in the Carabao Cup fourth round.

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