Norway captain substituted during victory over Gibraltar

Arsenal’s Martin Odegaard was forced off with an ankle injury during Norway’s World Cup qualifying victory over Gibraltar on Wednesday.

The playmaker, who joined the Gunners on loan from Real Madrid in January, appeared to twist his right ankle shortly before half time and was subsequently substituted at the break.

Norway coach Stale Solbakken allayed fears over the severity of the injury after his side sealed a 3-0 victory, saying: “It is not a serious injury. I have big hopes that Martin will be fit for the game against Turkey on Saturday.”

Speaking after the game to Norwegian media, Odegaard said: “I twisted my ankle, but I think I will be fit for the game against Turkey Saturday.”

The Norway captain has been in exceptional form for Arsenal of late and played a starring role in their 3-3 comeback against West Ham last weekend.

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Ahead of Norway’s victory, the squad all wore t-shirts with messages protesting against the 2022 World Cup in reference to host Qatar’s human rights record.

Odegaard said: “I have the impression that a lot of (players) are interested in this, care about it and want to do something to try and contribute in a good way.”

Solbakken added: “It’s about putting pressure on Fifa to be even more direct, even firmer with the authorities in Qatar, to impose stricter requirements.”