Arsenal Receive Boost as Partey Excluded from Ghana Squad
Arsenal fans can breathe a sigh of relief as midfielder Thomas Partey will not be joining the Ghana national team for the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) this month. Partey has been sidelined since October due to a substantial thigh injury that required surgery. Ghana coach Chris Hughton has made the decision, in consultation with Arsenal's medical team, to prioritize Partey's recovery and not risk him in the tournament.
Partey's Injury Deemed the Biggest of His Career
In a press conference announcing the Ghana squad for AFCON, Hughton emphasized the importance of Partey to the team but acknowledged the severity of his injury. Hughton revealed that he has been closely monitoring Partey's progress and consulting with Arsenal's medical staff. Given the caution required for such a significant injury, it was determined that the timelines for Partey's recovery would not align with the AFCON schedule.
Partey's Return to Arsenal Action
Partey has recently resumed light training and was expected to be in contention for Arsenal's FA Cup match against Liverpool this weekend. However, with his exclusion from the Ghana squad, he will have more time to recover and regain match fitness. Arsenal's next game is against Crystal Palace on January 20, providing further opportunity for Partey to fully recover before returning to competitive action.
Other Injury Updates for Arsenal
Arsenal has also received positive news regarding Takehiro Tomiyasu's recovery from a calf injury. However, Fabio Vieira and Oleksandr Zinchenko remain sidelined with groin and calf injuries, respectively.
Conclusion
While Ghana will miss the presence of Thomas Partey in their AFCON campaign, Arsenal fans can take solace in the fact that their star midfielder is being given the necessary support and caution to ensure a full recovery. Partey's return to action for Arsenal will be eagerly anticipated, as he looks to make an impact for the Gunners in the second half of the season.
