Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has emphasised the club's decision not to hasten the recovery of Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey from his injury.

Arteta stated that the priority is ensuring Partey makes a thorough recovery to reach his optimal performance level.

Providing an update on the injured players at the club, Arteta noted significant progress in the recovery of Emile Smith Rowe.

“Emile has already been on the pitch doing some jogging, so I don’t know how long it’s going to take," he told the club's official website.

“Normally he is a quick healer, and Thomas is the same. We have to make sure that when they come back, they are at their best as well."

“We don’t want to rush them, but at the same time, the team needs them because, at the moment, we are missing some key players.”

Thomas Partey has been sidelined since October due to a muscle injury, casting doubt on his availability for the 2023 AFCON.

However, he recently played for Arsenal in a 1-0 victory against Manchester City.