Charles Watts has been speaking on the latest edition of his YouTube show about all things Arsenal after the Gunners recorded a 4-0 win over West Bromwich Albion.
The Goal correspondent spoke about many topics, and one of the issues that he spent some time on was the fitness of Thomas Partey, who has not played for the Gunners since the defeat to Tottenham Hotspur.
Since the Ghanaian signed from Atletico Madrid, he has only played in six games, but it looks like he will be back for Newcastle United’s visit to the Emirates in the FA Cup this Saturday.
He said: (9:18) “[Saturday night] I asked Mikel [Arteta] about Thomas Partey after the game.
“Here is what he had to say ‘he hasn’t trained fully with us, but he has done most parts of training in the last few days; he’s feeling good, and we’ll assess him [to see] if he needs another two or three sessions to see if he’s 100% available to play.’
“So all signs point towards Thomas Partey returning against Newcastle next week in the FA Cup as long as he comes through training unscathed this week.
“That is going to be a fantastic boost to Arsenal, and it’s going to totally make them an even stronger team.”
Do you think Partey will make a difference?
Yes, he will improve us
No, we don't need him
TIF Thoughts on Partey’s return…
Considering just how little football Partey has played since he moved to Arsenal, you would imagine that he will be keen to get back out there as soon as possible.
In the games that Partey has played, he has been solid in the Premier League, and for tackles per game, he ranks top of the Gunners’ squad.
So, we think that Partey’s return could provide another boost for Arsenal, who will be looking to defend their FA Cup by seeing off a Newcastle side who have failed to win in six games.
If Partey is fit, then you would think his return could boost those chances.