Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has confirmed that midfielder Thomas Partey will be assessed ahead of the Gunners’ Premier League clash with Aston Villa this weekend.
The Ghanaian midfielder was ruled out of Wednesday evening’s 3-1 defeat to Manchester City with a muscular issue, despite taking part in training the day prior to the clash at the Emirates Stadium. Speaking ahead of kick-off, Arteta said: "It's what happens in football.
“Players pick up injuries and unfortunately Thomas [Partey] felt something in his back muscle. He isn't available to play today. We don’t know. It’s what happens, it’s part of football. I think Jorgi played a good game and we have to assess Tommy to see how bad it is."
With Arsenal ’s turnaround this week being particularly testing, any injury absence would be hugely damaging for the side. Ahead of the trip to the Midlands, Arteta has confirmed that Partey will be monitored.
Speaking in a press conference, the Spanish schemer said: “We have to assess him today again. He had some discomfort, a little muscle discomfort. We have to assess him and see how he is.”
Should Partey remain out then the Gunners could potentially go with the midfield that they selected for the clash against Man City. Captain Martin Odegaard partnered Granit Xhaka in the heart of the pitch and were joined by Jorginho - the Italian making his full debut since arriving from Chelsea on deadline day.
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Whilst Arteta attempts to make a decision over his midfield, the Gunners could welcome back a long-term absentee against Aston Villa. Academy graduate Emile Smith Rowe has been limited to just five Premier League appearances this term - none of those being starts - after suffering with a thigh injury.
Arteta has revealed that the midfielder is now back involved and could be in contention to play at Villa Park, although striker Gabriel Jesus remains restricted to the sidelines.
“Emile [Smith Rowe] is training today, if he’s fine he’ll be in the squad,” the Arsenal boss added. “Gabi [Gabriel Jesus] is still not there.”
Whatever team he selects for the game, Arteta will certainly hope to get his side back on track as they attempt to reclaim top spot in the Premier League. The Gunners are winless in four matches in all competitions - three of those having been defeats.
Arsenal have not gone five matches without a win in over a year - a record they will again be aiming to avoid against Villa this weekend as they come up against former boss Unai Emery. The Spaniard could potentially be bolstered by his own injury returnees in the form of Tyrone Mings and Bertrand Traore.
