Mikel Arteta provides key fitness update on Bukayo Saka and Thomas Partey

Mikel Arteta has provided a fitness update on Bukayo Saka and Thomas Partey ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League clash against RC Lens.

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The Arsenal duo have both been struggling with injury with Saka having limped off in the recent 2-2 draw with Tottenham – missing the Carabao Cup victory over Brentford – before returning for Saturday’s 4-0 win at AFC Bournemouth.

Arteta said that Saka picked up a ‘bad knock’ following victory over the Cherries and it was thought that he was doubtful for Tuesday night’s clash.

But Arteta provided a more positive update on his star player on Monday and said: ‘He’s fine.

‘He’s much better. It was a big knock but he has recovered well and trained with us today.’

Partey, meanwhile, has missed Arsenal’s last six matches across all competitions with a groin problem.

‘He’s progressed really well in the last two weeks and he managed to train in the last two or three days with the team and that’s great news for us obviously,’ Arteta said about the Ghana international.

‘I think his progression in the last week has been very good. He might have some exposure tomorrow depending how the game goes. He’s a big player and we know what he brings to the team.

‘He knows exactly what we need and with the injuries we had to other players in midfield and at the back he complements us in a great way and gives us options. So it’s great to have him back again.’

After their second Champions League game of the season, Arsenal return to Premier League action on Sunday as they host champions Manchester City.

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