Mikel Arteta says Arsenal's "main signing" Thomas Partey is "in a good space and a good mood" and is nearly ready to return.
Arsenal signed Partey from Atletico Madrid in the summer window, but the midfielder has struggled with injuries so far this season.
Arteta was asked for an update on Partey's progress ahead of Arsenal's clash with Newcastle, and provided some positive news.
"Well, we've got an extra two training sessions," said Arteta.
"We will assess after that whether he's completely fully ready to start or participate against Newcastle or if we're gonna leave it another few days for the Palace game.
"But he's been training really good. He's comfortable. He's not aware of the injury right now. He's done more than what he did after the injury when he played against Spurs.
"So he's in a good space, a good mood and you can see the player he is when he's training."
This is the second update on Partey that Arteta has provided in recent weeks.
In the first, the Spaniard referred to the midfielder as Arsenal's "main signing", suggesting the Gunners are not looking to splash the cash this month.
He also tipped the midfielder to transform Arsenal's season once he's fit again.
"We are in January and I think he's played two and a half games. That's all and he was our main signing. We've been missing him," said Arteta. "He brings something different to the team, he's a player with an enormous talent.
"But as well someone that can transform the team the way we want. It's great if we can have him, keep him healthy and I think he will contribute in a really positive way."
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