Jason McAteer says Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is facing a possible ‘nightmare’ scenario if Thomas Partey is out of action for any length of time following a recent rib injury.
The former Liverpool midfielder added that if Partey is sidelined then it will be a ‘big miss’ for the current Premier League leaders.
During Arsenal’s 1-0 defeat to Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City in the fourth-round of the FA Cup on Friday night, Partey was substituted at half-time after feeling some discomfort.
It was a precaution from Arteta given how important the £45 million star (Sky Sports) is to the team, the fact that it was a cup game and they have important league games coming up.
The 29-year-old will undergo an MRI scan to determine the extent of his issues, with many donning Arsenal colours keeping their fingers crossed.
Either way, this could prove to be a very crucial few days for the club, especially with the January transfer window open, which was touched upon by McAteer, as he told beIN SPORTS (28/01/23 at 5:50 pm).
“To lose Partey out for a prolonged period of time would be a nightmare for Arsenal,” said McAteer. “He will have an MRI scan to see how much damage is done and how long he is out for.
“He will be a big miss for them. They have strengthened in the window, maybe not in that position. But Trossard has been a good signing.
“Arteta’s got cover in most positions. I think Nketiah has been outstanding in Jesus’ absence.”
