Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey limped off during the first half of Arsenal’s 2-1 pre-season defeat to Chelsea following a tackle by Blues midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek.

The 28 years old was promptly replaced by Granit Xhaka, amid fears of missing the opening Premier League fixture against Brentford on 13 August.

“At the moment it’s not looking good because he was in pain and he could not continue which, for Thomas, is pretty unusual,” said manager Mikel Arteta.

The Black stars deputy skipper endured a torrid first season at the Gunners following a big move from Atletico Madrid last summer, was marred by injuries.

According to reports the midfielder is set for a scan tomorrow.