Mikel Arteta has revealed that Thomas Partey ‘demanded’ to be named in Arsenal’s starting lineup vs AFC Wimbledon in order to build up his fitness ahead of the side’s clash with bitter rivals Tottenham.
Gunners picked up an impressive
3-0 win yesterday night, with Alexandre Lacazette, Emile Smith Rowe and Eddie Nketiah all marking their names on the scoresheet.
And as expected, Arteta made the changes as ten players dropped out from Arsenal’s recent win at Burnley but there was some surprise as Partey continued his run in the side so close to the north London derby.
However, Gunners boss defended his decision to risk Partey from the start, with the midfielder determined to shake off the effects of an ankle injury which ruled him out of the start of Arsenal’s season.
"He needs games and he needs rhythm,"Arteta told Sky Sports shortly after the final whistle.
"He was demanding to play because he believes that he is still catching up a little bit."
When asked if it was always his plan to give Partey an hour, Arteta replied:
"Yes it was. He hasn’t played a lot of minutes since he’s been injured.
"We believe that the rhythm of matches is nothing like any training session.
"He was so willing to play so I think it was very beneficial for him."
Source -
Metro
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