The PL injury list still has names like Ødegaard, Saka and Madueke. Captain of Arsenal Martin Ødegaard has noticed steady improvements in his rehabilitation. It seems to be a minor knock that kept him out in the recent few games. The Norwegian made a return to light training. However, he is due to be in further assessment before an allowance for full participation. Mikel Arteta has remained cautious and unwilling to rush Ødegaard’s comeback. He knows full well that his creativity and leadership will prove vital to Arsenal in these busy game times. The medical staff are hopeful that he will be ready for duty very soon, possibly for the next PL game.
Saka’s Condition Monitored Closely
Saka has been managing a muscular problem that has lasted for some time. This is something that has raised fears among the supporters. The winger has been playing at times under discomfort, but Arsenal are weighing the risk of making the problem worse. Arteta had to admit that that is the sort of thing which needs careful handling: “We have to protect him, but he’s a player who always wants to be out there.” Saka will finally be declared fit for the next game, depending on his progress in treatment during the next few days.
The Injury with Madueke
Meanwhile, Noni Madueke is now out of action due to a ligament injury that he suffered during training. For Mikel Arteta, Madueke’s absence is a heavy blow as he has been attempting to incorporate the player on a more regular basis into his attacking schemes. Early reports hint at several weeks out, although the club has not specified an exact timeframe for a return.
Clubs Juggle Fitness with Demands
That being said, the situations of Ødegaard, Saka, and Madueke illustrate the tight rope that clubs have to walk when managing player fitness with fixture demands. There are massive games round the corner in both domestic and European competitions. Managers will be wanting these stars back at 100% but will equally be very wary of risking long-term injury.
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