Arsenal informed of Thomas Partey u-turn with Ghana

Arsenal have been informed of a change of heart from the Ghana international side as Thomas Partey was originally planned to remain with the Gunners throughout the two-week international break.

International managers will now get the chance to fine-tune their tactics and take a final look at their players as Europe prepares for the summer’s European Championships, with Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and World Cup qualifiers taking place this month.

Arsenal will have 15 players linking up with their national sides during this period, one of whom was not supposed to be Thomas Partey for reasons related to COVID-19 travel restrictions.

Ghana are set to face South Africa and Sao Tome and Principe if AFCON qualifiers, although the 27-year-old was initially left out of the squad due to Premier League clubs not wanting to release players who were set to play in ‘red list’ countries. South Africa features on that list.

Arsenal informed of Thomas Partey u-turn with Ghana as midfielder links up with national side during international break

As revealed on the official club website, a compromise has been found.

"“Thomas has been selected in the Ghana squad,” a statement read. “However, Thomas will only be available for the home fixture due to travel restrictions relating to South Africa.”"

Should Ghana secure victory or draw their first clash with South Africa they will finish top of their qualifying group. Defeat, however, means they will need to beat Sao Tome and Principe, the game that Partey will be available for if needed.

Even just one less fixture comes as a boost to Arsenal who are yet to see the best of the midfielder in red and white following his £45m move. It’s clear he is not yet up to Premier League fitness after battling back from a series of niggling injuries, although the 3-3 draw with West Ham saw him put in a solid second half display that showcased his better attributes.

He recorded the second most passes into the opponent’s half, the most passes overall and had more touches than any other player on the pitch. His distribution through the lines offered a glimpse into what is to come, as his role in a progressive sense was greater than seen since he returned from injury.

It still feels, however, that it might not be until next season before he hits top form.