Arsenal travel to Craven Cottage to face Fulham as they look to strengthen their position at the top of the Premier League table. The Gunners have lost just once in their last 18 league meetings with fellow London sides, but Mikel Arteta’s team will need more than a draw to keep title rivals Liverpool at bay.

Odegaard sidelined for several weeks

Arteta began his pre-match press conference with an update on the squad’s injury situation, confirming that captain Martin Odegaard will be out for several weeks.

“(Noni) Madueke – getting closer as well, he will start to do some running very soon.

“(Kai) Havertz – again, very difficult, a lot to do in his rehab, and he’s really pushing it. We are doing good work with him again. He wants to break every timeline.

“Odegaard – it will be weeks, no definite date for his return, but he is evolving well. Very unlucky, but he will be back in a few weeks,” Arteta said.

The Arsenal boss added that Odegaard remains positive and professional despite the setback.

“I think he’s in a really good place. He does everything he possibly can to prevent injuries. The ones he’s had are very difficult to prevent, so that takes some weight off. When you don’t have an option, you adapt.”

Rice thriving in new midfield role

Arteta also discussed Declan Rice’s evolving position in the team, highlighting how the England international has adjusted to new dynamics within the squad.

“I think he is adapting to the qualities that we have. We have certain chemistries and relationships that you notice,” Arteta explained.

“With eight new players in the squad, different things emerge. We are trying to maximise his qualities and his relationship with others to give the team the best capacity to perform.”

What to expect from Hincapie

Supporters could soon get their first glimpse of new signing Piero Hincapie, who has returned to full training this week. Arteta offered insight into what the young defender brings to the side.

“Well, what you’re going to see is aggression and determination,” he said. “This is a player who goes full gas into every single action, especially defending. He’s very clean on the ball and wants to penetrate with it.”

Arteta backs Gyokeres amid goal drought

Finally, Arteta addressed questions about striker Viktor Gyokeres, who has struggled to find the net in recent weeks.

“He brings so much to the team,” Arteta said. “I told him before the first meetings that the number nine I want — even if he doesn’t score for six games — can handle that. Wearing the number nine shirt for Arsenal comes with responsibility, and we want more.

“But he creates space, he works for the team, and with the talent we have, everyone will benefit from that.”

Arsenal’s clash with Fulham promises to be another crucial test as Arteta’s side continue their push for the Premier League title.