Arsenal’s Thomas Partey & Gabriel Injury Boost to Push Progression

Arsenal have been handed a double injury boost ahead of Saturday.

The FA Cup starts for Arsenal this Saturday as they host Newcastle United in the first game ahead of the defence of their title.

A full week off playing has given Mikel Arteta‘s side the relief they needed off the back of a hectic festive schedule, ironically at a time where they would’ve welcomed another fixture in quick succession.

Lost at sea this season, Arsenal have finally managed to catch a wave. Heads are above water and the horizon is in sight. Three consecutive Premier League wins have stemmed the tide and the outlook heading into the next stage of the season is finally positive.

Having dabbled with systems and personnel to no avail, the injection of youth has proved to be Arteta’s antidote; one that has stopped the rot, but not entirely. The Spaniard will be under no illusions that this campaign is suddenly fixed.

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Someone returning from injury having been absent for an extended length of time is often classed as being like a ‘new signing’. An overused term that doesn’t make all to much sense. In regards to Thomas Partey, however, just three full matches under his belt and three months on from his acquisition, he can be considered just that.

Arteta insisted the Ghanaian’s return would evoke such sentiments, and you can’t begrudge him for it. As impressive as the Gunners have been over the last three matches, the lack of Partey’s presence has actually been even more telling.

As opposed to feeling like the midfielder was needed to save Arsenal, his return will now improve Arsenal drastically. When searching for positives, that’s one to cling onto. It indicates progression is being made with this team; progression that can be maintained and built on.

How much superior this side can be with a fit Partey is genuine cause for optimism. Just smatterings of brilliance is all supporters have been treated to up until this point.

His return will transform the midfield. That first half against Brighton? Sure, Arsenal won the game, but when you’re looking for how to eclipse performances you needn’t look further than the stark deficiencies in central areas during those opening 45 minutes.

Partey’s return coincides with Gabriel Magalhaes, with updates on the pair given by the club.