Posted by Head Coach of the Black Stars Chris Hughton has explained why Thomas Partey didn’t feature in the African Cup of Nation (AFCON) qualifier against Angola on Monday.
The Black Stars came from behind to draw 1-1 against Angola in the fourth round of games of the AFCON qualifier at the Estádio 11 de Novembro in Luanda.
Angola went ahead in the 51st minute through a penalty converted by Lucas João, before Osman Bukari came from the bench to score and in the process earn Ghana a point.
Deputy skipper of the team, Thomas Partey watched the entire game from the bench, a situation which has left Ghanaians asking questions.
Reacting to the situation, Coach Chris Hughton in his post match conference revealed that Partey didn’t feature in the game due to a minor injury.
“Thomas has a small injury issue and we felt it was too big of a risk to start him,” Chris Hughton told the press after the game.
Arsenal will hope the Ghanaian international will dump the injury and be available for Saturday’s league clash against Leeds United at the Emirates.
Thomas Partey has been influential for the Gunners in their hunt for a first Premier League title since 2005, making 23 appearances and scoring 3 goals.