Kevin Campbell has said on Highbury Squad that Arsenal defensive midfielder Thomas Partey is still struggling with the physicality of the Premier League.
The former Arsenal striker believes that Partey suffering too many injuries this season suggests that the Ghana international is still not up to speed in the Premier League.
Campeball said about Partey on Highbury Squad: “Thomas Partey never had injuries. He has had three or four injuries since he has been at Arsenal.
“I think right up until now we have still been kind of nurturing him, trying to make sure he gets through games.
“Again, Spanish football and England football totally different. The game is the same, but the physicality is different. So he has to get up to speed on that physicality.”
Partey joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid only on the final day of the summer transfer window.
The Gunners paid £45 million for the 27-year-old, as reported by BBC Sport at the time.
The Ghana international arrived at the Emirates Stadium with a strong reputation and was expected to be a huge success.
However, Partey has had injury problems and has not really been able to show what he is capable of.
True, there have been occasions when the defensive midfielder has done well, but without a similarly capable partner in the middle of the park, he has not been at his best.
The defensive midfielder has made 17 starts and six substitute appearances in the Premier League this season.
Partey also made six starts and two substitute appearances in the Europa League this campaign.
Remember, Partey did not have a pre-season with Arsenal.
During pre-season, players get to know what the manager wants from them and also develop an understanding with their teammates.
The 27-year-old has not had that.
Next season Arsenal could see the best of Partey.
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