MARTIN ODEGAARD could be called into Norway’s next World Cup qualifying squad – even though the Arsenal skipper has not played for a month due to an injury.
Midfielder Odegaard, also skipper of his national team, is understood to be keen to be involved in the crucial forthcoming qualifiers against Estonia and Italy.
Top of Group I, a win against Estonia on November 13 could see Norway qualify for a major tournament for the first time since Euro 2000.
Odegaard has been back training after recovering from a knee injury sustained in the 2-0 win over West Ham on October 4.
Although the target has always been the north London derby with Spurs on November 23, he could be back even sooner.
Norway coach Stale Solbakken is due to name his squad tomorrow.
There have not yet been direct talks with Arsenal and the Premier League leaders will be keen for Odegaard not to take any risks.
Equally, manager Mikel Arteta might even welcome his key player getting some competitive minutes before the clash against Spurs.
Although Arsenal are in the Czech Republic for the Champions League clash with Slavia Prague, Odegaard will continue to be monitored while training back at London Colney.
Because of their much better goal difference compared to Italy, a win against Estonia would be enough for Norway to top the group and earn qualification before the clash against Italy in Milan three days later.
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Norway, boosted by having Erling Haaland up front, have not been at a World Cup since 1998.
In their most recent qualifier, Solbakken’s side defeated Israel 5-0 in Oslo.
