Thomas Partey has reportedly been left stunned by Tim Akinola in Arsenal training.
The 28-year-old is easily one of Arsenal’s most powerful and strongest players.
But according to Football London, Partey has met his match at Colney in the form of Akinola.
The report claims that the 20-year-old infuriated the Ghana international during a training-ground game which resulted in the latter being ‘clattered’ by the youngster.
But Football London add that Partey later praised Akinola and believes he’s the strongest player that he has faced.
Understandable
With Partey’s injury history at Arsenal, you can understand if the former Atletico Madrid midfielder was annoyed by a rash challenge – particularly on the training ground.
But by the same token, it does speak volumes for Akinola.
Hearing that Partey has praised the player’s strength is encouraging enough, but imagine the tenacity for a young player to launch a full-blooded challenge on a senior member of Mikel Arteta’s squad in a bounce game.
The report paints a picture of an academy player desperate to impress.
Well Akinola certainly made an impression on Partey – if the report is true – and considering he’s been training with the senior lads, Arteta might be impressed by him too.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
