‘One of the best players on the pitch’ – Ghana’s media praise Thomas Partey on 50th cap as European giants circle

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Ghana’s media waxed lyrical over Arsenal’s Thomas Partey following the 31-year-old’s performance against Chad in the African World Cup Qualifiers on Friday night.

Having signed for Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in October 2020, the holding midfielder has arguably had his strongest season to date at the Emirates.

With 42 appearances in all competitions for the Gunners this campaign, Partey has already played more games this season than in any of his previous four in North London.

And now Ghana are reaping the benefits of Partey’s consistency as they look to qualify for their fifth World Cup, and their second in succession following their appearance at Qatar 2022.

Ghana’s media full of praise for Thomas Partey in win against Chad

Ghana comfortably saw off Chad 5-0 to move to the top of Group I in the African qualifiers.

In his 50^th cap for the Black Stars, Partey was rock solid throughout, playing 83 minutes in the heart of midfield before being replaced by 21-year-old debutant Lawrence Agyekum.

It provided his side with an excellent platform to build on, earning him praise from Ghanaian outlet YEN News.

Writing following the game, Partey was described as ‘one of Ghana’s best players on the pitch,’ with the Arsenal man ‘playing a commanding role in the heart of midfield.’

GhanaWeb also gave Partey an 8/10 rating for his performance, adding that he ‘shielded the defence’ and ‘relentlessly chased down every ball throughout the game.’

With a crucial Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid to come after the international break, Gunners fans will be hoping Partey can produce similar performances for their side.

Barcelona and Atletico Madrid show interest as Partey’s contract nears end

With the midfielder out of contract in North London at the end of the season, his performance also bodes well on a personal level as clubs on the continent ramp up their interest.

Arsenal are prepared to offer Partey an extension, albeit with a reduced salary. But, reports have also indicated that Partey is likely to leave Arsenal despite that offer.

Should he not put pen to paper on a new deal, Arsenal Insider have exclusively revealed that Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are keen on Partey, with other Spanish clubs also monitoring developments.

While he has had his fair share of injury issues and inconsistent performances over the years, the Ghanaian has proven this season for club and country that he still has a lot to offer.