Thomas Partey back with Arsenal ‘as soon as possible’ after Ghana’s early AFCON exit, says Mikel Arteta

Mikel Arteta wants Thomas Partey involved back at Arsenal “as soon as possible” after Ghana were eliminated from the Africa Cup of Nations.

Ghana were dumped out of the tournament in the group stages on Tuesday night after claiming just one point from their three games.

The performance was a huge disappointment for Ghana and Partey, but it is good news for Arsenal.

The midfielder is now able to return to his club and there is a chance he could be back for Sunday’s clash with Burnley.

That would mean Partey has not missed a single Premier League match this month due to AFCON, with Arsenal’s north London derby against Tottenham postponed last weekend.

Thomas Partey and Ghana were knocked out of the Africa Cup of Nations at the group stage (AFP via Getty Images)

“Well, they [Ghana] played last night,” said Arteta on Wednesday. “It was a huge disappointment for Thomas obviously because he was representing his country and in this period he had big aims towards the competition.

“He's out now so he will be fully focused and involved with Arsenal as soon as possible.”