Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey could return from injury sooner than expected.

Mikel Arteta has said the Ghanian midfielder will miss several weeks with a thigh injury.

However, the Evening Standard says Partey is confident he will be back before this month's international break.

Although yet to take part in full training, Partey is hoping to be involved in some group work this week.

The 29-year-old was this morning called up for Ghana's friendlies against Brazil and Nicaragua later this month.

Partey's return would be a huge for Arsenal after the loss of Mohamed Elneny to a long-term injury.