Mikel Arteta press conference – Arsenal boss on Odegaard, Calafiori, injuries and Atalanta

Mikel Arteta is set to face the press at the Gewiss Stadium ahead of his side’s Champions League clash with Atalanta in Italy this Thursday evening.

Arsenal overcame the challenge of a North London Derby without several key players but are being thrown straight back into the action in Europe. Gian Piero Gasperini’s side are the Europa League champions and are sure to test the Gunners in a ground they have a strong record at.

Arteta is still without Martin Odegaard who missed training on Wednesday, and the Spaniard is due to provide an update on the Norwegian. Declan Rice is now available while Bukayo Saka and Riccardo Calafiori both trained.

We will also hear from one of the Arsenal players in the press conference. Arsenal embark in the brand new league phase of the tournament looking to finish in the top eight and skip a play-off round to join the last-16.

Arteta on Calafiori

Riccardo was able to train today and he will be in the squad.

Saka was able to train today and completed most of the session so he’s available.

Arteta on why the team struggled away in Europe last season

If we want to be at the level we want to be we have to be really good on the road and at home. We have to continue to be very consistent. In Europe it’s very tough to win just like in the Premier League. Hopefully we can be better.

You don’t know the opponents that well and then boxes become crucial. There are small moments that define the games. In Europe you’d better be at your best.

Arteta on how the team will cope without Odegaard

He’s our captain. He’s been one of the biggest and best players in our team. Our identity is very linked to how he plays and behaves. It’s a big test for the team to see how able we are to show a different face.

Arteta on Odegaard

After recent scans the scans showed that he’s got some damage especially on one of the ligaments in the ankle. It’s something quite significant so we’re going to lose him for a while.

Jorginho on the new Champions League format

It’s a new format we have to adapt to it. We have to learn how it works. One thing that’s clear is that we have to win games.

Jorginho on if he was shocked by Atalanta winning Europa League

To be honest I wasn’t shocked because I know Atalanta. They’ve been improving years on year and they deserve what they’ve achieved. I’m very happy for what they’ve done, and the fact that they’ve improved in Europe as well. It shows Italian football is of great quality.

Jorginho on Atalanta

It will be very difficult against a team that have been playing together for a number of years. They have shown they can win games and they have shown great quality and physical strength.

I love coming back to Italy.

Tonight’s schedule

We’re expecting Jorginho in first here in Bergamo.

Mikel will then follow.

Spotted in training

A look at everything spotted in Arsenal’s open training session ahead of the trip to face Atalanta.

That includes what Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka were seen doing, and an unexplained absence…

Injury boost

A big injury boost for the Gunners ahead of the game, with Riccardo Calafiori back in training.

We’ll hear from the boss on whether or not he’s fit for selection…