CBS Sports journalist James Benge has revealed that Thomas Partey is expected to be fit for Arsenal against Everton, despite picking up a 'minor knock'.

The Lowdown: Injury concern

Following Arsenal's 1-0 loss away at Manchester City in the FA Cup fourth round last time out, Mikel Arteta confirmed that Partey was substituted off at half-time because of a knock to the ribs.

He added that the Ghana international needed an MRI scan to determine how serious it was, leaving supporters sweating over his fitness for the weekend.

The Latest: Should be fit

Taking to Twitter on Tuesday evening, Benge revealed that the North London club are 'expecting' Partey to have recovered from his 'minor knock' in time to face the Toffees at Goodison Park at Saturday lunchtime:

"They’ve got a new signing to back him up anyway just in case but I’m hearing this evening that Arsenal are expecting Thomas Partey to have recovered from his minor knock in time for their trip to Everton on Saturday."

The Verdict: Big boost

It is certainly a big boost that Partey should be fit after the injury scare against City on Friday night.

Regarded by some parts of the media as the Gunners' most important player, he has been so key in the heart of their midfield, with none of his team-mates averaging more tackles, interceptions or passes per game than him in the Premier League so far this season (WhoScored).

The Emirates Stadium outfit did sign defensive midfielder Jorginho on deadline day to cover for Partey, but the 29-year-old makes such a huge difference to the side, and they will need to try and keep him fit for the rest of the season to give them the best possible chance of winning the title.