Arsenal's Martin Odegaard not ruled out by Mikel Arteta for North London derby, while Micky van de Ven expected to return for Spurs

Martin Odegaard's injury status remains uncertain ahead of the North London derby, but Mikel Arteta has not ruled out the possibility of the Arsenal captain featuring in the crucial clash against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday.

Odegaard was forced off in the first half of Arsenal's 3-2 win over Manchester United on Sunday with a knock, and his availability for the derby has been in doubt ever since.

However, Arteta has provided a positive update on the Norwegian's condition, saying that he is "doing everything he can" to be fit for the game.

Micky van de Ven is expected to return for Tottenham Hotspur in the North London derby, providing Antonio Conte with a much-needed boost in defence.

The Dutch defender has been out of action since the beginning of the season with an ankle injury, but he has now returned to training and is in contention to feature against Arsenal.

Van de Ven's return is a timely boost for Spurs, who have been struggling with injuries in defence this season. Cristian Romero, Clement Lenglet and Japhet Tanganga are all currently out, leaving Conte short of options at the back.