Arsenal star returns to training to allay latest injury fears

Thomas Partey was back in Arsenal training on Tuesday, dismissing his latest injury concerns after he was taken off against Burnley at the weekend.

The 28-year-old has had ongoing fitness problems since arriving at the Emirates last year, starting just 18 Premier League games last season and with just one start and one substitute appearance so far this campaign.

Partey was replaced by Ainsley Maitland-Niles in the 75th minute in the 1-0 win over Burnley on Saturday, which will have concerned Arsenal fans and coaching staff alike.

Mikel Arteta confirmed that it was just cramp that the Ghanaian was struggling with, but after all the football he ahs missed, there will have been worries ahead of the big north London derby against Tottenham on Sunday afternoon.

However, he was back in full training with his teammates on Tuesday and, while he is unlikely to be risked against AFC Wimbledon in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, he will be available on Sunday.

Speaking after the win over Burnley on Sunday, Arteta said: ‘He [Partey] struggled at the end, he could not finish at the end, he was cramping, but that will come up. He’s missed a long time that will come again, and he needs some fitness back.

‘Again he [Tierney] had a problem. I think he was cramping. The pitch was pretty difficult today it was quite long.’

Partey will have competition for a place in central midfield, though, with Granit Xhaka returning from suspension for Sunday’s match, Mohamed Elneny likely to be fit again after a hamstring strain and Sambi Lokonga pushing for a return to the starting XI after being on the bench against the Clarets.

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