Mikel Arteta says ‘important’ Arsenal player will miss Tottenham derby clash

Sat 23 September 2023 6:15, UK

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Thomas Partey will not be available for Sunday’s ꦦPremie♏r League meeting with Tottenham Hotspur.

The Gunners midfielder has been sidelined since the Manchester United match before the💫 international break, due to a groin issue.

Arteta also has♏ an another potential injury worry ahead of the Spಌurs match in the form of Gabriel Martinelli, who faces a late fitness test.

The 22-൲year-old suffered a hamstring injury in the 1-0 win over Everton last weekend and missed the Champions League win over PS🦋V.

Arteta held his pre-match press conference on Friday𝕴, with the Arsenal reporting his comments.

“With Gabi we are still assessing him,” said the Gunners ඣboss. “So let’s see if he can ⛄make the game or not.”

“Thomas for sure is out. The rest we hope are available, yes we still have two training session🍌s, but there were no big issues in midweek.”

Our view

Partey is an🦹 ‘‘ player for Arsenꩲal and it’s a shame he’s not back fit, though at the same time, it’s not too surprising.

Reports have that the Ghana international🧜 ൲may not be back until October, potentially after the international break.

As for Martinelli, his abse🦂nce would be another blow, but at the same time, L🍬eandro Trossard has been in good form for the Gunners.

As things stand, Arteta can still field a very strong squad, and Arsenal will fancy thei💛r chances against Spurs at the Emirates.

At the same time, Tottenham are in g♓ood form too and are a much stronger proposition under Ange Postecoglou.

With that in mind, Arsenal could be 🏅in for a very tough ♓match-up.