Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey has reckoned the importance of working hard to maintain his position in Atletico Madrid set-up following his impressive showing in their 5-0 thumping of Levante last Saturday.

The 24-year-old has been an integral part of Diego Simeone's side this season, playing in numerous positions as the Rojblancos looks to recapture their best form.

At Levante, the former Tema Youth ace was reverted back to his favourite midfield role after playing as a makeshift right back in the 2-0 win over AS Roma in the UEFA Champions League following the absence of regular player Juanfran Torres and his deputy Sime Vrsaljko.

After the game, Partey valued the match they had made. "We knew it was not easy to win in this field but we came out strong and we achieved it."

"We have always worked and we just lacked luck to make goals."We have never had problems. We have to keep working to keep up."

On a personal level, the Ghanaian enforcer is delighted to have won Simeone's confidence: "I am happy for the opportunities that the coach gives me. I will continue working to get more because it is not easy to compete with players of such quality."