Arsenal have now been handed a major boost, as Thomas Partey has returned to first-team training.
The midfielder was initially expected to be out until after the October international break, having picked up a muscle injury in training shortly before the victory over Manchester United a month ago.
However, he has returned ahead of schedule, with a match against RC Lens in the Champions League and a huge title clash against Manchester City at the Emirates coming up this week.
Partey returns to training
The 30-year-old started the campaign as an inverted right-back, having been a crucial figure in the Arsenal midfield last season, before picking up his injury, but his return could be a timely one.
The Evening Standard have now reported that the Ghanaian is back training with the team, but it is still unclear whether he will play any part in tomorrow’s game away at RC Lens.
If Partey is able to join the squad for the game, a bench appearance could see him build some fitness ahead of Sunday’s game against Man City.
Should Partey return to the starting XI?
If he is able to get some minutes under his belt, he could be a game-changing addition to the Arsenal midfield for Sunday’s showdown.
Partey started alongside Declan Rice in midfield in the Community Shield draw with City, where Arsenal were both solid at the back and dangerous going forward, and he can help provide a good balance in the middle of the park.
Rice can have more licence to push forward, amidst criticism that he is not offering enough output as a defensive midfielder, and with Rodri suspended for City, Partey can help Arsenal dominate possession at the Emirates.
Partey was described as “important” by Arsenal legend Ray Parlour last season, and if he can stay fit, he can have a huge impact on the team.
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