Ghana have named Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey in their preliminary squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations.

A hamstring injury has kept the 30-year-old on the sidelines since October, with a previous groin issue meaning he has only played five times all season.

But it is understood that Partey could be ready to return to Arsenal action over the festive period, shortly before he heads off to AFCON.

The Gunners travel to Liverpool on Saturday, a game for which Partey is a doubt, before facing West Ham, Fulham and Liverpool again - this time in the FA Cup on January 7.

AFCON players are expected to depart after that weekend with Ghana first up against Cape Verde on January 14, before group games versus Egypt and Mozambique.

If the Black Stars go all the way in Ivory Coast, Partey would be absent from Arsenal duty until mid-February.

On Wednesday, Ghana coach Chris Hughton named a 55-man preliminary squad for the tournament including Mohammed Kudus of West Ham, Jordan Ayew of Crystal Palace and Brighton defender Tariq Lamptey.

Teams have until January 3 to cut down their lists to 27 players, only 23 of which will be able to make each matchday squad.