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'Very close': Mikel Arteta updates on Thomas Partey's fitness

'Very close': Mikel Arteta updates on Thomas Partey's fitness


Very close: Mikel Arteta updates on Thomas Parteys fitness

Mikel Arteta updates on Thomas Partey's fitness

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided a fresh fitness update on Thomas Partey ahead of the Europa League clash against Benfica.

The Gunners drew 1-1 during the first leg of the Europa League last 16 and they are scheduled to host Benfica for the return leg on Thursday.

Ahead of the game, Arteta provided positive news on Partey and said that his involvement may depend on a late fitness test.

"Thomas is very close. He's got a final test today in training. If he's feeling good, he will be available to play the match," He told Arsenal.com.

Partey has suffered three separate injuries this season and Arteta may be cautious over rushing him back to action.

He has travelled with the team for the second leg at the Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium in Piraeus and could start on the bench.

The Gunners are currently 11 points adrift of the top four in the Premier League.

Their Champions League hopes may lie on them winning the Europa League.