Former Arsenal captain Gilberto Silva has likened Thomas Partey to Highbury legend Patrick Vieira.
Speaking to Goal, the Invincible-winning midfielder believes that the Ghanaian international reminds him of both himself and his former teammate Vieira. Silva and the ex-French international formed the midfield pivot that won Arsenal the Premier League as undefeated champions.
Partey joined Arsenal last season from Atletico Madrid. However, injuries have plagued the 28-year-old’s time in north London. And this year, the midfielder looks eager to redeem himself after a disappointing debut year in England.
The former La Liga star has only just returned to full fitness, but Partey has already looked sharp in the matches has featured in this season. The midfielder is highly likely to start later today in the North London Derby.
Indeed, it has been a disappointing start to life in the Premier League for Partey. But for Silva, he is confident that the midfielder can return to the form that made him one of Atletico’s best players in recent years.
Silva said: “Obviously he has quality but it’s hard when you compare someone. He has his type of game and me and Patrick had the way we played.
The Premier League winner added: “Partey is an important player, he has the possibility to grow even more. But it’s important that the other players come with him, improve their level, the way they play and build up this strong, winning mentality.”
With such high praise from an Arsenal icon, Partey could flourish this season in the midfield and play a huge role in pushing Mikel Arteta’s side back into Europe.
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