Mikel Arteta has admitted that £50m Arsenal star Thomas Partey is working hard in training on his long shots.
Speaking to the press via Football London after the Gunners’ 2-2 draw at home to Crystal Palace, the Arsenal boss revealed that the former Atletico Madrid midfielder is practising on his efforts from range.
The 28-year-old Ghanaian is yet to score for Arsenal since arriving in 2020. However, Partey has been noted, and often criticised, for his long-range shots. The midfielder, however, came close twice last night against Palace.
Two efforts in the second half were close to finding the back of the net as Arsenal threw away a 1-0 lead to draw 2-2 at home to Palace. It was a performance that once again brought pressure under Arteta’ position at the club.
Indeed, Partey was poor on the night. But speaking after the game, Arteta believes that the midfielder is working hard in training to ensure his long shots are becoming better.
The Basque manager said: “Today he was much closer than he’s been. It’s something we’re practising with him. He’s trying and he needs to keep trying, but in the right areas.”
Partey long shots are costing Arsenal valuable chances
Arsenal under Arteta are a side that have become synonymous with a lack of chances. And Partey is somewhat a cause for this problem. The Ghanaian has at multiple times preferred to try his luck from distance rather than create an opening for a teammate.
It is a frustrating watch given the quality Partey has. The former Atletico man is Arsenal’s best midfielder in the squad, and long shots have overall caused more problems for the Gunners than good.
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