Michael Essien has told Goal.com that he is ready to help Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey, but not against Chelsea.
Essien was on the books of Chelsea from 2005 until 2014 and won the Premier League title twice and the Champions League once with the Blues.
The 37-year-old also played 58 times for Ghana, and he believes that his compatriot Partey is a good signing for Arsenal.
The former AC Milan midfielder has praises Partey, and while he is happy to help his fellow Ghanian, he has made it clear that he will not give him any pointers against Chelsea.
Essien has told Goal.com: “I know him, I have seen him play a couple of times and we do talk now and then. If he has any questions, he can always contact me for my thoughts – except when he plays Chelsea.
“But I wish him well and I am looking forward to seeing him do very well for Arsenal. They have made a great signing by bringing my countryman to take on the Premier League.
“He is more of a typical No.6 than me. He is very good on the ball, wins duels, has good speed, reads the danger well and he is a very complete midfielder.”
The former Chelsea star added: “I think it is a great move for him too, though. Arsenal is a great club. The Premier League is also brilliant, so it will help him to improve his game as well.”
Good signing for Arsenal
Partey joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in the summer transfer window and has done well for the Gunners so far.
The 27-year-old has played 97 minutes in the Premier League and 90 minutes in the Europa League for Mikel Arteta’s side, according to WhoScored.
Chelsea are aiming to challenge for the Premier League title this season, while Arsenal are looking to finish in the top four of the standings.
Partey will be a big player for the Gunners in the coming weeks and months, and he will hope to perform well when he faces Essien’s old club.
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