Mikel Arteta has told Friday’s press conference – as per Football London – that Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey is likely to be out for the rest of the season. The Ghanaian suffered the injury in the 3-0 loss to Crystal Palace.
Partey, 28, is considered Arsenal’s best central midfielder and has started every game he has been able to do so. His only substitute appearance in the Premier League came after returning from an ankle injury, at the start.
Along with the absence of Takehiro Tomiyasu and Kieran Tierney, Arsenal’s push for the top four has suffered a blow. Tottenham have since taken on the mantle, winning their last four to go three above Arsenal in fourth.
Saturday’s trip to Southampton, then, is a crucial one. They have to win to keep the pressure on Spurs, who play before Arsenal against Brighton. There was hope that Partey would return before the end of the season.
Arteta was asked if that there is any hope Partey will be in action before the season is done – and having given it some hope initially, the Arsenal gaffer now says there is little optimism Partey will be seen again in 2021-22.
“The news that we got after another assessment is not looking very positive for his availability this season. At the moment we’re not very optimistic,” Arteta told his press conference on Friday, as quoted by Football London.
Arteta on Partey: Midfielder a huge blow for Arsenal
It dramatically reduces the quality Arsenal have in the middle of the park. Granit Xhaka is somewhat inconsistent, while Albert Sambi Lokonga – who is likely to continue to deputise – is still learning the Premier League.
Losing that physicality, that footballing intelligence, that passing seriously affects the Gunners. Players are not so willing to get forward without Partey controlling the midfield. Southampton could capitalise on Saturday.
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