Arsenal Confirm Crucial Thomas Partey & Emile Smith Rowe Injury News

Arsenal have provided injury updates on key duo Thomas Partey and Emile Smith Rowe ahead of Saturday’s crunch Premier League clash with Manchester United.

The victory over Southampton was not without casualty, as Thomas Partey was forced off with 12 minutes to go while Emile Smith Rowe has to be replaced earlier on in the second half.

Both players appeared to hobble off with cramp although fears were that the issues could keep them out of the visit of United at the Emirates Stadium.

Absent from the 3-1 win was Kieran Tierney, who was superbly covered by Cedric Soares on the day. As per the official Arsenal website, all three were given key updates.

Arsenal provide injury updates on Kieran Tierney, Thomas Partey and Emile Smith Rowe ahead of Manchester United clash

"The statement read: “Thomas has been in full training since Tuesday’s match at Southampton and is available for selection. Emile has been in full training since Tuesday’s match at Southampton and is available for selection.”“Kieran is continuing to be assessed for discomfort in the right lower leg. A late decision will be made regarding Kieran’s availability for Saturday’s match.”"

The news is comes as a huge bonus to Mikel Arteta’s hopes of securing a third win over Ole Gunnar Solskjaer since becoming Arsenal boss, currently boasting two wins from two with three goals scored and none conceded.

In midfield the presence of Smith Rowe has been paramount to the recent upturn in form and the confirmation that both he and Partey have been training ever since the south coast victory would indicate that the issues were only cramp-related.

As for Tierney, the worry is letting him aggravate his current leg issue. His presence will be vital for the remainder of the season, even if Cedric has proven himself to be a commendable backup option.

Partey in particular is finally returning to full match fitness, having barely featured since joining in the summer for £45m. His standout performance thus far was the 1-0 win at Old Trafford back in November, a game that sparked differing form from both sides.

Victory could prompt a genuine European charge while the Red Devils will hope to kickstart their title challenge.

The news of Partey and Smith Rowe’s fitness is warmly received.