The welcome sight of Bukayo Saka back in Arsenal’s starting lineup for Saturday’s meeting with Fulham was countered by the absence of captain Martin Ødegaard.

Ødegaard only returned from a knee injury in late April and started the team’s last three games across all competitions, completing 90 minutes in the first two before being withdrawn shortly before the hour mark in the 1–1 draw with Atlético Madrid .

Fears were sparked by the sight of him trudging off the pitch in midweek, with his absence on Saturday only adding to the concerns.

Why Martin Ødegaard Is Not in Arsenal’s Matchday Squad

Ødegaard left the Atlético game early.…