Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey is a surprise omission from Ghana’s squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, in what could prove to be a timely boost for Mikel Arteta.
Partey has been out of action since October because of a serious thigh problem but was still expected to be selected by Ghana, for whom he is a hugely important player.
The 30-year-old had been hoping to make his return to club football during the festive period but his omission from the Ghana squad is an indication of the severity of his injury.
Partey had surgery on his thigh after suffering the injury with the final kick in training before Arsenal’s Champions League match against Sevilla earlier this season.
Chris Hughton, the Ghana head coach, said that Partey’s injury is the biggest he has suffered in his career.
“Thomas Partey for sure, and I say this not in a detrimental way to the squad that we have, but he is one of our most important players,” said Hughton.
“This we know and, withstanding his injury, he certainly would be in the squad. We know the quality of the player that he is. This is a player that has a substantial injury.
“I’ve spent a lot over this period of time with Thomas and also engaging with the medical staff at Arsenal Football Club.
“They will treat this injury with caution, and so will the player. This is a big injury for him and the biggest injury that he’s had.
“The most important thing for me as head coach and our association is to give him the support that he needs through this period of time.
“From all the information that we’ve been given, the timelines of his recovery and the caution that will be taken, will not meet our timelines for the Afcon.”
Arsenal, who have lost back-to-back matches in the Premier League, will hope that their upcoming mid-season break will allow Partey to accelerate his recovery. Arteta’s side are heading to Dubai following this weekend’s FA Cup match against Liverpool.
Partey has featured in midfield and defence this season and his absence has been felt in recent weeks when Arsenal have been short of options in key defensive positions.
Meanwhile, the Black Stars opened camp on Tuesday in Kumasi with Inaki Williams and Jordan Ayew yet to join the rest of the team.