January 14, (THEWILL) – Martin Odegaard has tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of the first leg of Arsenal’s Carabao Cup semi-final against Liverpool.
Odegaard was a surprise absence from Mikel Arteta’s starting XI, as the Gunners seek a boost ahead of the second leg at the Emirates Stadium next Thursday.
Sead Kolasnic was also unable to join Arteta’s squad due to a hamstring injury. Pierre-Emerick Aubemayng, Thomas Partey, and Nicolas Pepe, who are all in AFCON, were also absent from the selection pot.
After recovering from a positive COVID-19 test, Liverpool were able to welcome back the pair of Trent Alexander-Arnold and goalkeeper Alisson, who had missed Liverpool’s previous two matches.
The match was supposed to take place last week, but it had to be rescheduled because to a COVID-19 outbreak in Liverpool.
Each leg was pushed back a week as a result of the postponement, with Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur playing both legs in the other semi-final. After Thomas Tuchel’s side won 3-0 on aggregate, either Arsenal or Liverpool will face Chelsea in the final.
Arsenal has not stated how long Odegaard is expected to be out. On Sunday, they face Tottenham in a crucial north London derby and his availability will be a major boost for the Gunners.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
