Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is hopeful Thomas Partey's latest round of surgery will see him playing again before Christmas.

Partey underwent an operation on a 'muscular problem' this week.

Arteta said on Friday: "He's progressing really well, but it was a significant injury. I said hopefully it will be weeks not months and he's working towards that. He needs support and hopefully the injury will heal in the right way and we'll have him back because he's a big player for us."

On Partey playing at the Africa Cup of Nations with Ghana, Arteta added: "Well that's part number two.

"Let's get him fit and healthy as quick as possible and playing a big part in the team which I think he can do."