Arsenal

Arsenal

Premier League • England

Arsenal faced with Thomas Partey absence as midfielder requires ‘specialist consultations’

Thomas Partey could face a significant spell on the sidelines after Arsenal confirmed he has suffered muscle damage in his right thigh.

The Ghanaian midfielder was a starter for Arsenal in their 3-0 defeat to Crystal Palace on Monday. However, he could not complete the 90 minutes. He went off as a substitute because of an injury issue – the kind of problem that has been all too familiar during his time at the club.

Since joining from Atletico Madrid in 2020, Partey has missed 21 games due to four separate injuries. Now, his latest blow will keep him out for a further stretch.

An Arsenal statement has confirmed the midfielder has undergone scans on his injury. The club have subsequently said they will keep an eye on his recovery over the “coming weeks”, which indicates he may be absent for a significant period of time.

The statement read: “Our No. 5 was substituted during Monday night’s game against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park after aggravating his right thigh.

“Thomas has since received further assessments, and a subsequent scan has shown muscle damage to his right thigh.

“We will continue to assess Thomas in the coming weeks, during which time he will also receive further specialist consultations.

“Everyone will be working hard to get Thomas back on the pitch as soon as possible.”

Thomas Partey could miss some important games

Thomas Partey playing for Arsenal

Arsenal still have nine games of their season left to play. They are aiming to return to the top four, but the absence of one of their most important midfielders will be a blow.

In what remains of April, Arsenal are scheduled to play Brighton, Southampton, Chelsea and Manchester United. Then, in May, the season will conclude with commitments against West Ham, Leeds, Tottenham, Newcastle and Everton.

There is no specific timeframe in which Partey is touted to return. Therefore, Mikel Arteta will have to juggle without him until he is ready.

Their other options in central midfield include Granit Xhaka, Albert Sambi Lokonga and Mohamed Elneny.

Midfield is not the only area in which Arteta may have a headache. Full-backs Takehiro Tomiyasu and Kieran Tierney are also suffering with injuries of their own.

The manager must find a solution if he is to help get Arsenal over the line for Champions League football next season.

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