The Gunners have been in superb form after the international break with victories against Nottingham Forest and Sporting Lisbon.

The club are now scheduled to face the Hammers at the London Stadium and ahead of the game, they have suffered huge injury blows.

As per the official website, Partey has picked up a muscular problem while Merino sustained a knee injury in the lead-up to the derby.

In the absence of the duo, Jorginho has got the nod to partner Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard in the centre of the park against the Hammers.

Jorginho had a good outing against Forest last weekend, but he was substituted at the half-time break due to his early yellow card.

The Italian has had limited playing time this campaign, but he now has the opportunity to step up for the Gunners during the festive schedule.

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