Martin Odegaard is fit to play for Norway against Georgia on Tuesday night, despite Rodri’s foul on him on Saturday.

MALAGA, SPAIN: Martin Odegaard of Norway passes the ball whilst under pressure from Rodri of Spain during the UEFA EURO 2024 Qualifying Round Group A match between Spain and Norway at La Rosaleda Stadium on March 25, 2023. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
MALAGA, SPAIN: Martin Odegaard of Norway passes the ball whilst under pressure from Rodri of Spain during the UEFA EURO 2024 Qualifying Round Group A match between Spain and Norway at La Rosaleda Stadium on March 25, 2023. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Jan Aage Fjortoft reports that Martin Odegaard will be fit for the starting lineup as Norway face Georgia in a European Championship qualifier on Tuesday night.

There was some concern around Odegaard’s fitness – largely from supporters – after a heavy challenge from Rodri in Norway’s match against Spain at the weekend.

But the Arsenal and Norway captain completed the full 90 minutes of the match, and he’s been passed fit to take to the pitch again on Tuesday at 17:00 BST.

A win is very important for Norway’s qualification hopes, as there are only two qualification places available in the group, and Spain and Scotland have already got off to winning starts.

Mikel Arteta will be watching anxiously to ensure the 24-year-old comes through unscathed once again, with Arsenal set to take on Leeds United on Saturday.

MALAGA, SPAIN: Martin Odegaard of Norway gives the team instructions during the UEFA EURO 2024 Qualifying Round Group A match between Spain and Norway at La Rosaleda Stadium on March 25, 2023. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
MALAGA, SPAIN: Martin Odegaard of Norway gives the team instructions during the UEFA EURO 2024 Qualifying Round Group A match between Spain and Norway at La Rosaleda Stadium on March 25, 2023. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

The Gunners have been a much better side with Odegaard involved this season, as was particularly noteworthy in the Europa League tie against Sporting CP.

Odegaard was one of few first-choice players not to start either leg of the tie, only coming on in extra time, and the improvement in the team’s performance was clear to see in that period.

Had he been available to start, perhaps the result would have been different.

Having the Norwegian fit to start the remaining 10 games of the campaign will certainly improve Arsenal’s chances of maintaining their position at the top of the league.