Thomas Partey was deployed in an unusual right-back role for Arsenal in their game against Southampton, and the Ghanaian midfielder did not look out of place.
In the Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, October 5, 2024, Mikel Arteta, who has lost his two first-choice right-backs, relied on the versatile Thomas Partey, and the 30-year-old gave a good account of himself.
Despite not having the pace and defensive nous of Ben White and Jurrien Timber, who are Arsenal’s first-choice full-backs, the Ghanaian midfielder provided decent cover with his interceptions and passing abilities.
Thomas Partey’s ability to sniff out challenges and intercept them was particularly outstanding in this game as he helped Arsenal recover the ball quickly and put pressure on Southampton.
He made a few marauding runs on the flank and linked up quite well with Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz.
In the 84 minutes he lasted on the pitch, Partey completed 70 out of the 74 passes he attempted, had one shot on target, and blocked one shot.
Offensively, he completed one dribble, made ten passes in the final third, and completed three out of the five long balls he attempted.
He won four of the five tackles he contested, made one recovery, one interception, and won five out of the six ground duels.
Arsenal defeated Southampton 3-1 at the Emirates to continue their challenge for the 2024/2025 Premier League title.
Kai Havertz got the equalizer for the Gunners before goals from Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli sealed the victory.
Partey has been in fine form for Arsenal in their last three matches, and with Ghana having important assignments against Sudan, Otto Addo would be pleased with the form of one of his key players.
The deputy skipper of the Black Stars has already arrived in Ghana for the game against Sudan on October 10, 2024, at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Thomas Partey 1st Half vs Southampton (H) 🇬🇭pic.twitter.com/NHOX7lbZ73
— AFC_Adi (@AFC_Adi06) October 5, 2024
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