Thomas Partey is hoping to hand Arsenal a huge fitness boost by being available for Saturday’s trip to Leicester, Evening Standard reports.
The midfielder has missed the Gunners’ last two games due to a thigh problem and was again absent from training on Monday.
Speaking to BT Sport ahead of Aston Villa’s game, Arteta said on Partey: “He’s (Thomas) not fit. He didn’t even train with us yesterday. He wasn’t feeling good enough to do that so he probably needs another week.”
Arsenal will assess Partey this week and continue to be cautious over his involvement, with the timescale tight on whether he can be in the squad this weekend.
The 29-year-old has been a key player for Arsenal since his arrival from Atletico Madrid last summer, but has been hampered by injuries this season.
Partey missed the midweek 3-1 defeat to Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium after picking up a muscular injury and was absent again for game against Aston Villa.
Despite Partey’s absence, Arteta’s team ended their Premier League woes with a 4-2 win over Aston Villa. The victory was Arsenal’s first in four games and lifted them up to first on the table.
👊 Victorious at Villa
Relive all the highlights from our 4-2 win in Birmingham earlier this afternoon 👇 pic.twitter.com/5FO6Pmh5de
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) February 18, 2023
Jorginho has started the last two games in the absence of Partey and played a vital role as Arsenal came back to win 4-2 at Villa Park last Saturday.
The Gunners will not rush the 29-year-old back with Jorginho’s January arrival – and impressive start since – easing the pressure to do so.
Arsenal’s game in hand on City is next Wednesday when they host Everton. If Partey misses Saturday’s trip to Leicester then that match would be targeted for his comeback.
Bukayo Saka and Eddie Nketiah were also missing training on Monday, but it is understood the session was a recovery one, with some players instead working indoors.
