Posted by Former Gunner, Ray Parlour has stated that new Arsenal signee, Thomas Partey has the potential to be close to being as good as Patrick Viera.
Thomas Partey, who has been a top target for Arsenal all summer sealed a €50m million move to Arsenal from Atletico Madrid on transfer deadline day.
The 27-year-old, who arrives at the Emirates as one of the best defensive midfielders in the world is expected to give Arsenal steel in midfield.
The sort of midfielder the Gunners have been crying out for since the departure of erstwhile captain and club legend Patrick Vieira to Juventus in the 2005.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing Partey. They haven’t got the energy in that midfield and Partey will bring that,” former Gunners star Ray Parlour told talkSPORT.
“I’ve seen him play quite a few times for Atletico and he’s very effective. I’m really looking forward to see how he copes in the Premier League as well.
“Hopefully he’s going to play a major part if there is any success moving forward for Arsenal, trying to get in that top four.
“I think Arteta highlighted him early and said he’s the sort of player we need in that midfield area, because they are a bit lightweight at times in central midfield.
“I know it’s very difficult to get a replacement of Patrick Vieira, but they’ve not really got someone like him and I think Partey could be close to being as good as Patrick,” he ended.
Thomas Partey made his Arsenal debut in a 1-0 defeat to Manchester City at the Etihad on Saturday evening.