Mikel Arteta provides a harrowing new injury update as Arsenal take on Southampton

Mikel Arteta said at Friday’s press conference – according to 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 defeat by Crystal Palace.

Partey, 28, is considered Arsenal’s best central midfielder and has started every game he has managed to do so. His only Premier League substitute came on his return from an ankle injury.

Combined with the absence of Takehiro Tomiyasu and Kieran Tierney, Arsenal’s push into the top four has suffered a setback. Tottenham have since taken the mantle, winning the last four to sit three above Arsenal in fourth place.

So Saturday’s trip to Southampton is crucial. They need to win to keep the pressure on Spurs, who play Brighton ahead of Arsenal. There was hope that Partey would return before the season was over.

Arteta has been asked if there is any hope Partey will be in action before the end of the season – and after initially giving him some hope, the Arsenal gaffer now says there is little optimism Partey will see again in 2021-22 will.

“The news we received after further evaluation does not look very positive for his availability this season. We’re not very optimistic at the moment.” Arteta said at his press conference on Friday, as quoted by Football London.

Arteta on Partey: Midfielder a big blow to Arsenal

It dramatically reduces the quality Arsenal has in the middle of the park. Granit Xhaka is somewhat inconsistent, while Albert Sambi Lokonga – who will probably continue to be represented – is still learning the Premier League.

Losing that physicality, that footballing intelligence, that passing seriously affects the Gunners. Players aren’t that willing to move forward without Partey controlling midfield. Southampton could capitalize on Saturday.