Thomas Partey is back! Mikel Arteta confirms Arsenal midfielder is set to return to matchday squad for first time since October in Sheffield United clash

Arteta has confirmed that the defensive midfielder is set to return to the Gunners' squad on Monday, when they face Sheffield United. Arsenal are currently third in the Premier League table, just two points behind leaders Liverpool, and a return for Partey would be a major boost, as he has been absent since October.

Arteta told reporters: "Yeah Thomas had a session before the last game and now he’s done two or three consecutive sessions. He should be part of the squad on Monday."

He has also said "it's possible" that currently sidelined trio Takehiro Tomiyasu, Oleksandr Zinchenko, and Gabriel Jesus could also be involved.

Partey has been missing with a hamstring injury and has not played in the Premier League since their 1-0 win over Manchester City in October. He comes back at an opportune time, with Arsenal currently on a six-game winning run.

Arsenal play on Monday so they will be well aware of the results of their title rivals before kick-off. Liverpool play Nottingham Forest on Saturday, while City face Manchester United on Sunday.