Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s plans for the Carabao Cup semi-final tie against Liverpool tonight have been left in “disarray” after Martin Odegaard was ruled out for the game, according to Goal.
The Norwegian international is not in the travelling squad for the match at Anfield, suggesting he has either picked up the virus or sustained an injury.
Emile Smith Rowe is already out with a groin problem so Arteta won’t have a no.10 available for this evening’s clash, which suggests that he may have to change his system.
There is one piece of good news, though, with Granit Xhaka expected to be available after completing his quarantine period, but there are question marks about how fit the Swiss international will be.
One solution could be to utilise Charlie Patino as the most advanced of a midfield three, with Albert Sambi Lokonga and Xhaka playing the more withdrawn roles. However, that would put a lot of pressure on the teenager.
Another option could be to play Alexandre Lacazette slightly deeper as the ten, and start Eddie Nketiah up top but going with a 4-4-2 at Anfield would be a big risk.
