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Arsenal supporters are confident of closing the gap at the top of the Premier League after Thomas Partey returned to training.
The midfielder has not started a match for the Gunners since last August due to injury, but is now ready to return to the field.
Arsenal are currently third in the Premier League, five points behind leaders Liverpool and level with second-placed Manchester City.
City have a game in hand and were looking ominous in their last top-flight match against Newcastle following Kevin De Bruyne’s return to fitness.
Arsenal news: Fans delighted as Thomas Partey returns to training
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Arsenal’s form over the Christmas period saw them briefly drop out of the top spot and out of the Champions League qualification places.
Last weekend’s 5-0 demolition of Crystal Palace got their campaign back on track and now Mikel Arteta has received another welcome boost.
Partey played a key role in helping the Gunners win their first title since 2004 last season.
They ultimately failed in that pursuit, but many supporters were keen to see them sign Declan Rice for £105 million.
He has yet to start a league match in midfield with Rice, with three of his league starts in August coming at right-back.
The former Atletico Madrid star was ruled out for a month with a groin injury before making a brief return as a substitute in the win over Manchester City in October.
But after this he suffered a serious injury to his hamstring due to which he had to stay out for three months.
Partey were forced to bow out of the Africa Cup of Nations, while Ghana were eliminated this week after failing to win any of their group matches.
But the 30-year-old is now back in full training ahead of Arsenal’s match at Nottingham Forest on Tuesday.
Gunners fans rejoiced on social media, with many reacting similarly.
One wrote on X: “Arsenal look set to win the league easily with Partey back.”
Another said: “We’re winning the league.” While another posted: “Our title charge starts now.”
Latest sports news:
Arsenal news: Thomas Partey has not played for the Gunners since last October
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Arsenal have not won the league since going undefeated in the season in 2003/04.
But Partey’s return has fans confident that this will be his year.
One wrote: “This season is looking better than ever. The missing piece of the title-winning puzzle.”
While another said: “Please never get injured again. A fit Thomas Partey can lead Arsenal to the title.”
Arsenal news: Thomas Partey could return against Nottingham Forest
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Other supporters were sending warnings to their rivals over Partey’s withdrawal.
“Open up, the world’s best DM is back!!” Wrote one.
“The League is in Crisis!!!” Wrote the second one.
Following the trip to Forest, Arsenal host Liverpool on 4 February.
They will face Porto in the last-16 of the Champions League, with the first leg taking place in Portugal on February 21.
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