What Thomas Partey did vs Newcastle proves Arsenal got one piece of January transfer business right

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Newcastle United toyed with Arsenal to end Mikel Arteta’s dreams of Carabao Cup silverware.

After a dreadful first leg saw Newcastle beat Arsenal 2-0 at the Emirates, it was more of the same in the North East.

Arsenal hadn’t scored at St James’ Park in 14 years and the wait goes on, as the Gunners lost by a 2-0 scoreline once again.

Arteta will ask questions of his players as Arsenal’s defence failed to cope with Newcastle but, it wasn’t just the back four that was terrorised on the night.

• READ MORE: Two winners and four losers from Arsenal’s clash with Newcastle including Alexander Isak and William Saliba

Thomas Partey was not good enough against Newcastle 

There were several poor performers against Newcastle, with few struggling as much as William Saliba, who had a rare disaster at the back. 

The Frenchman will hope that Arsenal do sign Isak in the future so that he won’t have to play against the striker again. 

Saliba will not want to re-watch his performance but, he’s not the only one, as Thomas Partey was also incredibly poor in midfield.

As seen above, the Ghanaian was messy in the middle of the park, losing possession multiple times and committing fouls, a display that wasn’t needed on this occasion.

When Arsenal called for control going into the game, Partey arrived without energy and inspiration, seeing Newcastle dominate in all areas of the pitch.

As his contract at the Emirates ticks down, the 31-year-old certainly looked like a player in the final few months of his stay, lacking stability and assurance where it mattered most.

Martin Zubimendi deal looks even more important 

Partey’s performance wasn’t up to standard, but the midfielder’s lacklustre display brings relief for one reason.

As well as the Ghana international’s contract running down, Arsenal are in line to sign Martin Zubimendi, a capable defensive midfielder and presumably the heir to Partey in Arteta’s midfield.

The Spaniard will bring a refreshed approach to the number six role, something that Partey sometimes offers, but sometimes fails to do enough.

Against Newcastle, the former Atletico Madrid ace was sluggish, making his replacement’s pending arrival all the more uplifting.