Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta, has explained that he had no option but to play Thomas Partey as a right-back.

The manager stated that his first choice for the position is Dutch defender Jurrien Timber, emphasising that he has no backup for the former Ajax man.

“I had no choice. I didn’t have another right full-back. Who plays when Jurrien isn’t available or his load is too high? I didn’t have another right-sided centre-back [vs. Aston Villa],” Arteta said.

Thomas Partey faced criticism after making costly mistakes in Arsenal’s 2-2 draw against Aston Villa.

The Gunners blew a two-goal lead on Saturday, January 18, 2025, with Partey’s defensive lapse allowing Ollie Watkins to grab a late equalizer.

The draw dealt a blow to Arsenal’s title hopes, as they now sit six points behind league leaders Liverpool, having played one game more.

EE/AE

Watch the latest edition of Sports Debate below: