Martin Odegaard sends three-word message to Arsenal teammates after 2-2 draw vs Man City

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Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard had to watch from afar as his team drew 2-2 with Manchester City.

The Gunners came the closest they’ve been to winning at the Etihad since 2015 as Mikel Arteta’s side faced an uphill battle against the champions. 

Arsenal fought valiantly in the second half in an attempt to keep their 2-1 lead intact although such proved incredibly difficult with only 10 men. 

Leandro Trossard was sent off just before the interval, with the visitor’s defending near perfect in the second half before John Stones’ last-gasp equaliser broke Arsenal hearts. 

• READ MORE: Mikel Arteta compared to Jose Mourinho and Sir Alex Ferguson after Arsenal display against Man City

Martin Odegaard reacts to Arsenal draw against Man City

Arsenal gave it their all against City, who were left frustrated by the success that the Gunners found in defence throughout the game.

Arteta’s squad had no other option but to defend for their lives, being a goal ahead for the majority and with a man short.

It was a performance to be proud of from an Arsenal point of view in a game that could have so easily been lost at the Etihad.

One player who was certainly proud of his teammates’ effort was captain Martin Odegaard, who missed out due to injury.

The midfielder posted on Instagram after the game in support of his club at the Etihad, sending a three word response to the draw which read, “Love this team.”

Odegaard could have been the difference maker at City however, the 25-year-old was forced to watch the game unfold at home as he recovers from an ankle injury sustained on international duty.

Arsenal will want Odegaard back promptly 

Arsenal have faced away battles against Spurs, Atalanta and City all without their captain, who is a significant influence on the squad in midfield.

The Norwegian suffered an ankle injury during the international break, with no definitive answer over how long exactly he’ll be out of action. 

• READ MORE: The nine games that Martin Odegaard could miss for Arsenal

For now, the spike in fixture difficulty has come to an end, with home tests against Bolton Wanderers and Leicester City coming next for the Gunners.

As each game passes, Arsenal edge closer to having Odegaard fit and ready to influence in the final third again, with the 25-year-old’s presence and leadership so important to Arteta’s side.