"The noises coming out of Arsenal..." - Sky Sports reporter gives Partey injury update

Sky Sports reporter Michael Bridge has given an update on the injury suffered by Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey prior to Wednesday's clash against Manchester City.

The Ghana international missed the Premier League fixture against City because of injury, with Gunners boss Mikel Arteta describing the decision not to play him as 'very, very late'.

Partey was pictured in training with the rest of the team on Tuesday, with the decision seemingly taken on Wednesday that he would play no part in the match.

The Gunners went on to lose 3-1 at the Emirates Stadium, despite dominating possession against Pep Guardiola's side. Bukayo Saka netted a penalty for the hosts, with Kevin De Bruyne, Jack Grealish and Erling Haaland getting on the scoresheet for City.

Partey's absence was a major blow for the Gunners, despite Jorginho ably deputising on what was his first start since signing from Chelsea in January.

Now, Bridge has provided the latest on the amount of time Partey may miss.

Sky reporter gives Arsenal Partey update

Speaking on Sky Sports News on Friday morning, Bridge explained: "It's a slight back muscle problem and he will be assessed ahead of tomorrow's tie.

"The noises coming out of Arsenal is that it is a minor injury, but they don't want to make it a major one. He is such a key player here. So he will be assessed."

Bridge also provided updates on the status of Gabriel Jesus and Emile Smith Rowe, who are both recovering from injury: "Gabriel Jesus is still out. There is no timeframe on his return, although he is getting closer.

"The good news for Arsenal though is that Emile Smith Rowe will be training later today here."

Arsenal take on Unai Emery's Aston Villa in the Premier League early kick-off on Saturday, with the Gunners looking to end a three-match winless run in the league and regain the lead of the division after losing it to City on Wednesday.

Arsenal will hope that Partey is cleared to play at Villa Park, such has been his importance to the side this season.