Thomas Partey Slammed by Rio Ferdinand for Tottenham Display
- Thomas Partey faced sharp criticism from Rio Ferdinand and Ally McCoist for his role in Tottenham's goal
- The pundits highlighted Partey’s lack of urgency and failure to close down space, allowing Pape Matar Sarr to set up the chance for Heung-Min Son
- Meanwhile, Arsenal fans lauded Partey for his role in Leandro Trossard's goal during the North London derby
Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey came under fire from Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand and pundit Ally McCoist for his performance in Arsenal’s clash against Tottenham.
The Gunners initially fell behind to a Heung-Min Son goal, but it was Partey’s lack of urgency leading up to the opener that drew sharp criticism.
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The incident occurred in the 24th minute when Pape Matar Sarr surged through Arsenal’s midfield unchallenged, creating the opportunity for Tottenham’s breakthrough.
Ferdinand pointed out Partey’s failure to close down the space, saying via Football Insider:
“Partey didn’t want any part of that running against Sarr there. Your holding midfielder has to get across and slow that down.”
McCoist echoed Ferdinand’s frustration, adding:
“That’s not good. He should be breaking his neck to cover that gap between the left-back and the left centre-back.”
The pair agreed on the Ghanaian’s shortcomings, with Ferdinand concluding:
“100 per cent, Al.”
Arsenal achieve club first in North London derby win
Despite Partey’s criticised moment, Arsenal responded with a quick turnaround.
Per Sports Mole, the Gunners accomplished a historic North London derby milestone in the Premier League era with their impressive 2-1 comeback victory over Ange Postecoglou's side on Wednesday evening.
An own goal from Dominic Solanke and a strike from Leandro Trossard gave Mikel Arteta's side the lead heading into halftime.
However, Arteta may still have concerns when reviewing Partey’s role in the first-half defensive lapse.
Fans praise Partey’s contribution to Arsenal goal
Meanwhile, Arsenal fans praised Thomas Partey for his pivotal role in Leandro Trossard's goal during the North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur.
The Ghanaian midfielder delivered a masterclass in defensive precision and tactical awareness, creating the moment that led to Arsenal's second goal.
While Trossard celebrated his goal amid rapturous applause at the Emirates Stadium, fans on social media turned their focus to Partey's instrumental role.
His clean tackle and ability to transition defence into attack became the focal point of discussions.
Fans explain why Partey was booed
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that Thomas Partey faced jeers from fans during Arsenal's FA Cup loss to Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium.
Supporters have since offered differing opinions on why the former Atletico Madrid midfielder was booed during the match.
Mikel Arteta criticised for underutilising Partey
YEN.com.gh further reported that Mikel Arteta has faced criticism for utilising Thomas Partey as a right-back in Arsenal's Premier League title chase.
Analysts suggest that shifting Partey from his midfield role has negatively impacted the team, as reflected in recent statistics.
Meanwhile, the 31-year-old's future at the club remains uncertain, with contract talks yet to progress.
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Source: YEN.com.gh
