Following the pairing of physio Simon Murphy with Thomas Partey during the Black Stars’ recent AFCON qualification matches against Angola this month, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been complimentary of the club’s partnership with the GFA.
Partey participated in the first leg of the match, which Ghana won 1-0 in Kumasi. However, he was benched in the return fixture in Luanda on the premise that he had a minor injury and coach Chris Hughton didn’t want to risk him.
Partey travelled to Ghana with Murphy, a member of Arsenal’s medical staff, to make sure he got the proper care.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference ahead of Arsenal’s game against Leeds United, Arteta expressed his satisfaction with the collaboration between the club and the GFA, saying, “It’s something we’ve done in the past. We have a really good relationship with the Ghanaian federation, and we have to manage and look after our players.”
He added that the partnership was mutually beneficial, with the GFA being “really positive” about Arsenal’s involvement. Arteta also expressed hope that Partey, who missed Arsenal’s last game due to injury, would be fit to play against Leeds on April 1.
Meanwhile, Ghanaians were unanimous with their acclamation of Thomas Partey after putting up a stellar performance against Angola in the AFCON qualifier played at the Baba Yara Sports stadium.
The common denominator in their comments is the fact that he replicated his club form for Arsenal in the Ghanaian shirt which he has never done in a long while. To the delight of fans both in the stadium and online, the former Atletico Madrid displayed his exceptional abilities during the game. Ghana had a strong first half, but the team failed to take advantage of its opportunities, leaving the score at 0-0 at the break.
However, Ghana was able to achieve a victory thanks to Antoine Semenyo of Bournemouth scoring in stoppage time. Partey was a key component of the team’s success.
Partey displayed his skill as a midfielder throughout the match by completing three crucial passes, accumulating 91 touches, generating one significant opportunity, attempting one shot on goal, winning seven ground duels, completing three successful dribbles, and carrying out four tackles.
He was essential in the team’s cornerback defence as well.
Source – Tru News Report
