Thomas Partey looks set to miss the rest of Arsenal's season, Mikel Arteta has confirmed.
The Gunners midfielder injured his thigh in Arsenal's 3 0 defeat at Crystal Palace on April 4 and initial scans showed a significant injury.
Partey was hopeful he could be back in time for Arsenal's final few games of the season, but Arteta admits that is now looking unlikely following further assessments this week.
Speaking ahead of Arsenal's crucial game at Southampton on Saturday, Arteta all but confirmed his £45 million midfielder would not play again until next season.
"The news that we got after having another assessment was not great," said the Gunners boss. "It is not looking very positive [for] his availability this season, but we will have to wait and see.
"He is trying to get back as quickly as possible, but at the moment we are not very optimistic about it."
He is attempting to return as soon as possible, but we are not optimistic at the time."