Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has revealed his ambition to blend the best qualities of African football icons Yaya Toure and Michael Essien as he continues his standout form.
Following an impressive performance against Real Madrid in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals, Partey delivered another solid display, scoring in Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Brentford at the Emirates Stadium over the weekend.
The 31-year-old, who has faced injury struggles this season, appears to be finding peak form at a crucial moment for the Gunners.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Partey shared his goal of becoming a more complete midfielder. “I like to be defensive and offensive. I know whenever I am in the opposite area, I have chances for a goal, and defensively, I want to be stronger,” he said.
“I want to attack like Yaya Toure and defend like Michael Essien, so having both qualities is important,” Partey added.
Arsenal are closely monitoring Partey’s fitness ahead of their decisive second-leg clash against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday.
He was substituted during the first leg after picking up a knock, but the club is optimistic that he will be fit for the crucial encounter.