Mikel Arteta now ‘uncertain’ over Arsenal star’s fitness ahead of Sevilla clash

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Arsenal are set to face Sevilla in an important Champions League tie tomorrow, but they may still be without a number of key players.

Arsenal fell to their first League defeat of the season in controversial circumstances against Newcastle, where they also struggled to create chances in the absence of Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Jesus.

Sevilla will travel to the Emirates on Wednesday, with Arsenal victorious in Spain two weeks ago, and Mikel Arteta’s side can almost guarantee qualification for the knockout rounds with another win.

However, they may have to do it without Odegaard again, as Arteta has hinted that he may still be unavailable.

Arteta hints at Odegaard absence vs Sevilla

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Arteta revealed that whilst Gabriel Jesus remains sidelined, Odegaard’s availability is unclear, following reports that he could return for the clash against the Europa League winners.

“Gabi [Jesus] won’t be fit, with Martin it’s still uncertain. The rest, no news so far,” Arteta stated.

Fabio Vieira should be given a chance if Odegaard is unavailable

With Emile Smith Rowe also injured, Arteta is somewhat limited in his midfield options for the Sevilla clash if he cannot pick Odegaard.

Havertz started in Odegaard’s role against Newcastle, and delivered a promising performance following his disappointing start to his Arsenal career, but could not help create a significant chance, and there have been calls to play him as a striker instead.

This leaves Leandro Trossard, who was particularly poor at St James’ Park, and Fabio Vieira, who has been in and out of the team after a bright start to the season.

This would be a good opportunity to test Vieira in Odegaard’s role, and to see if the Portuguese playmaker can inject some more creativity with his strong vision and passing skills. Whilst Sevilla may pose a physical threat, Vieira can help unlock their defence at the Emirates, and it will be a good opportunity for him to play his way into the starting XI.