Thomas Partey just did something vs Liverpool that no Arsenal player has managed in four years

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Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey was one of Mikel Arteta’s top performers during the draw against Liverpool.

In a dramatic 90 minutes at the Emirates, Liverpool and Arsenal were unable to be separated with the blockbuster clash ending 2-2.

It was a memorable day for two Gunners, as Bukayo Saka reached 50 Premier League goals and Mikel Merino scored his first for the club.

The goalscorers will take credit for finishing off two stellar moves however, it was another player who was responsible for Arsenal earning a point.

• READ MORE: I watched Arsenal’s frustrating 2-2 draw vs Liverpool and here are five concerning conclusions I drew

Thomas Partey was at his best against Liverpool

There were concerns going into the fixture as Arteta was without William Saliba and Riccardo Calafiori in defence.

The Spaniard was bold by naming midfielder Thomas Partey at right-back ahead of some more qualified to play the role however, the manager’s call proved to be the right one.

Partey was phenomenal against Liverpool, with fans making their thoughts on the 31-year-old clear, as his numbers told the tale of a dominant display.

Opta data reinforced just how good the Ghanaian was against Arne Slot’s side, as the makeshift defender did something for the first time in over four years at Arsenal.

Partey became the first Arsenal player to win three or more fouls, make five or more tackles, win 10 or more duels and record 75 or more touches in a Premier League match.

The last player to do so was Saka, who achieved the feat in 2020 against Chelsea.

Partey’s form could change Arsenal’s contract stance

Partey’s hike in quality this season has been something of a revelation for Arsenal, who are yet to make a decision over the midfielder’s future.

The Ghana international was linked with moves away from the Emirates in the summer, as his career in the Premier League came under question when Merino was signed to presumably take his spot.

Instead, Partey has found a new lease of life in North London, putting pressure on Arteta and Edu Gaspar regarding his contract, which expires next summer.

At 31, there’s a conversation to both support and oppose offering Partey a new deal however, there’s little to deny the midfielder’s claim to the starting XI at this moment in time.