It may only be October, but there’s a genuine fear that Arsenal could be out of the title race before it’s begun by the end of the month.
Poor results against Bournemouth and Brighton earlier in the season mean that their upcoming clash against an in-form Liverpool has become a must-win.
Hardly music to the ears of the Gunners’ fanbase given that Arne Slot’s rampant Reds have only conceded three goals in the English top flight this term.
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Only one goal conceded came away from home (Wolves). Albeit, the Anfield-based outfit have yet to face a standard of opposition greater in quality than Chelsea.
Arsenal will struggle against Liverpool without Martin Odegaard
(Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
Paul Scholes was quick to talk up Liverpool’s title chances when comparing the side’s squad to fellow league rivals Arsenal.
The league leaders look markedly improved in all departments – despite a limited summer window – but Mikel Arteta’s biggest problem may reside in his own squad. Namely, the injury-enforced absence of key midfielder Martin Odegaard.
“If you want to win leagues, you have to win these big games. You have to win against your rivals. [Manchester] City was the same last year – [Arsenal] went to City last year and got a draw and celebrated it. That was the time to go and win the league,” the former Manchester United midfielder spoke on The Overlap’sStick to Football.
“Without the sending-offs, Arsenal haven’t been great anyway. [The midfield] is not flowing, like it was last year. [No Martin] Odegaard could be a big issue [against Liverpool].”
How long is Martin Odegaard out injured?
The Norway star first sustained his ankle ligament injury whilst on international duty with Stale Solbakken’s men.
There had been some hope that the 25-year-old’s return date would see him play a part in Arsenal’s impending clash with…
Source link : https://www.caughtoffside.com/2024/10/24/paul-scholes-martin-odegaard-injury/
Author : Farrell Keeling
Publish date : 2024-10-24 16:03:53
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