The major Thomas Partey injury news that Arsenal fans will love ahead of crunch matches

Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey is pushing for a return to action this season, despite Mikel Arteta initially stating that he would not be seen again.

The Ghanaian midfielder has started individual training and is not ruling out a return again this campaign, even if Thursday night’s north London derby might come too soon for him.

Arteta admitted the Gunners have to find a way of winning matches consistently without their key holding midfielder, with the stats backing up Partey’s importance to his side.

The midfielder’s close circle are confident that he will be able to join team training next week, and could be fine to take part in the final run of games this season.

Arteta admitted the 28-year-old was progressing quite well, although he said they have to be careful not to rush him back and risk further damage.

The Arsenal boss told the press: “The win rate when Thomas is there is higher.

“It is something that is not good for us because in the last two seasons he has not been there as much as we want.

“He has been out injured and sometimes he pushes too far in order to play and he gets injured again.

“He is willing to help again to play this season.”

Arsenal go into the North London derby missing Kieran Tierney, who picked up a knee injury, while Ben White will have to pass a late fitness to play a part.

The Gunners though could seal a return to Champions League football if they can win and put to bed any chances of a Tottenham comeback.

It’s been a remarkable turnaround for Mikel Arteta, who started the season with three straight defeats and was desperately looking at the sack.

He has since turned things around and even earned the trust and respect of the fans and bagged a new contract.