Mikel Arteta lauds Thomas Partey for crucial role in Arsenal’s dominant victory over Chelsea
Mikel Arteta hailed Thomas Partey after Arsenal’s amazing 5-0 win over Chelsea, praising the midfielder’s play as vital to the victory. After a lengthy layoff due to injury, Partey showed his talent in only his second league appearance of the season, sliding easily into Arsenal’s midfield.
Arteta’s decision to start Partey paid off nicely, with the Ghanaian offering steadiness and composure, particularly against an intimidating opponent like Chelsea.
The manager’s trust in Partey’s capacity was proven as he directed proceedings from the center of the pitch, restricting Chelsea’s attacking threats while also starting Arsenal’s offensive movements.
‘We thought it was a really good game for Thomas to come back. He looks like he’s in rhythm, he trained really well in the past few days,’ Arteta saud in his post-match press conference.
‘With the players they have we thought it was the right call to make. He stepped up.
‘We have missed Thomas since August, and he’s a big player for us, but that has given chances to other players. For Declan [Rice] to play as a No.6 and then rediscover him as a No.8.
‘Playing Kai as a No.9 too, and the contribution of Jorgi [Jorginho] has been absolutely phenomenal as well. The team has resources and has to find different ways of winning, acting and interchanging their qualities. I’m really happy.’
‘Also when you play Declan, Kai and Martin [Odegaard] and when you play Emile[Smith Rowe] in there and when you play Jorgi as well for sure because we’ve won some big games with him in there,’ the manager added.
‘Depends on the game, on the state, on the opponent as well. It’s great because everyone feels really important as well. I think that’s something really important there.’
Arteta recognised the importance of Partey’s help in keeping Arsenal’s title hopes alive. With critical matches ahead, including the eagerly awaited North London derby against Tottenham, Arteta has a welcome selection problem, helped by Partey’s outstanding performance.
As Arsenal moves ahead at the top of the Premier League table, Partey’s recovery adds another dimension to their title hopes, with Arteta praising his midfielder’s resilience and contribution to the team’s success.
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