Mikel Arteta has warned Thomas Partey could have a fight on his hands reclaiming his place in the Arsenal starting XI after returning from injury in the 6-0 thrashing of Sheffield United.
The Gunners sauntered to another emphatic victory at Brammall Lane on Monday night, five goals to the good by half-time.
Partey was summoned from the bench after 65 minutes to replace Jorginho in midfield, making his first appearance since August.
Groin and hamstring injuries have limited the Ghana international to just 366 minutes across all competitions including the Community Shield but his return to fitness hands Arteta a huge boost in the battle for the Premier League title with Manchester City and Liverpool.
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In Arsenal’s midfield, Declan Rice has started every Premier League game this season with Jorginho enjoying an excellent return to form since the start of February.
Given his lengthy absence, Arteta will exercise caution over Partey’s return, explaining after Monday’s win he will carefully manage his minutes in the coming weeks.
The Gunners boss explained the midfielder will have to earn ‘the right’ to earn his chance.
‘He needs to build that, because it was his first minutes after four months which is a long time. And then, like everybody, you need to have the right to earn the minutes.’
Arteta also confirmed Takehiro Tomiyasu is ‘very close’ to making his comeback. The Japan international has not played since returning from the Asian Cup last month having struggled with a calf injury since September.
Monday’s win saw the Gunners keep pace with Liverpool and Manchester City at the summit of the Premier League with just two points separating the three sides having each played 19 games.
Arsenal return to action on Saturday evening when they host Brentford at the Emirates.
