Arsenal fans were surprised to see Ainsley Maitland-Niles starting instead of Thomas Partey when their lineup was announced for the game against Watford on Sunday with the Ghanaian missing out.

Arsenal v Wimbledon 22 September 2021, London - Carabao Cup Football - Arsenal v AFC Wimbledon - Will Nightingale of AFC Wimbledon and Thomas Partey of Arsenal smiles - Photo: Charlotte Wilson / Offside.
Arsenal v Wimbledon 22 September 2021, London – Carabao Cup Football – Arsenal v AFC Wimbledon – Will Nightingale of AFC Wimbledon and Thomas Partey of Arsenal smiles – Photo: Charlotte Wilson / Offside.omas Partey

Thomas Partey was a surprise omission from Arsenal’s squad for their game against Watford.

The midfielder missed out due to a tight groin.

After the match, Arteta was asked about Partey joining up with Ghana. “He’s got a muscle injury, let’s take it day by day,” Arteta replied.

There was some good news with Kieran Tierney returning from his bruised ankle and he will be joining up with Scotland.

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The defender, who has been called up for the international break by Scotland, was named on the bench.

Arsenal lineup vs Watford

Arsenal: Ramsdale, Tomiyasu, White, Gabriel, Tavares, Maitland-Niles, Sambi, Smith Rowe, Saka, Aubameyang, Lacazette

Subs: Leno, Cedric, Holding, Tierney, Elneny, Odegaard, Pepe, Martinelli, Nketiah