Ghana's head coach Chris Houghton has put Mikel Arteta's mind at ease by announcing that Thomas Partey is injury-free. Arsenal fans also heaved a sigh of relief!

The 30-year-old midfielder, recently back to the field after a groin injury, was taken off at half-time during Ghana's 2-0 loss to Mexico last Sunday. Partey had missed six games before making a triumphant return in Arsenal's 1-0 win against Manchester City.

Houghton clarified that it was always the plan for Partey to play just 45 minutes in the friendly held in Charlotte, North Carolina. Given that Partey hasn't played a full game since his injury, risking him in a non-competitive match would be unwise.

There's still some mystery surrounding whether Partey will play in Ghana's upcoming game against the United States on Wednesday, which will be held in Nashville, Tennessee. Houghton reassured everyone by stating, "Thomas was always only going to play 45 minutes."

Read: Can Hojlund fire Manchester United to the Top?

As for the Gunners' gaffer Arteta, he's facing some tough choices regarding Bukayo Saka (hamstring), Leandro Trossard (hamstring), and William Saliba (toe), with all three players missing this month's internationals. Jurrien Timber is another casualty as a result of a severe injury sustained in August.

With an important Premier League match against Chelsea on Saturday, Arteta definitely does not want Partey sidelined on top of his other concerns. Arsenal has kicked off the season strong and sits neck-and-neck with Tottenham atop the standings. 

Feature image credit; goal