Arteta gives Partey and Smith Rowe injury updates for Arsenal’s trip to Everton

The Gunners go to Goodison Park in the early kick-off on Saturday hoping to extend their five-point lead at the top of the table as Manchester City do not play till Sunday.

Arteta was always going to be without long-term absentees Gabriel Jesus and Mohamed Elneny and he confirmed on Friday that Smith Rowe will also not be available due to a thigh problem.

More concerningly for the Arsenal boss will be that Partey is a doubt after the rib injury he picked up against Manchester City in the FA Cup last week.

The midfielder may feature at Everton, but the Spaniard could not confirm that he will be available on Merseyside.

‘Let’s see, that one is still a doubt. Let’s see today how he comes in and if he’s able to train with the team or not. We’ll make a decision,’ Arteta told a press conference on Friday.

‘He’s not ruled out and it’s nothing very significant, but it was significant to get him out of the game, which for Thomas is a bit unusual. Hopefully he will be fine.’

Partey has been an integral figure in the middle of midfield this season for the league-leaders, but if he does not make it for the match on Saturday it could see an Arsenal debut for new signing Jorginho.

The Italy international arrived from Chelsea shortly before the transfer window closed and could go straight into the team if the Ghanaian is not fit.

For Smith Rowe, his frustrating season continues as the 22-year-old has made just five Premier League appearances, all of which have come from the bench.

Competition is fierce for places in the Arsenal front four anyway, but injuries have hampered his progress and he will have to wait again for a chance to make an impact.

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