Ghana midfielder, Thomas Partey, says he is aiming to have the qualities of African football legends Yaya Toure and Michael Essien.
After delivering a masterclass performance in Arsenal’s 3-0 win against Real Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinal last week, Partey continued his impressive performance against Brentford last weekend.
The 31-year-old was on the scoresheet as the Gunners were held to a 1-1 draw at the Emirates Stadium.
Reflecting on his recent performances, Partey shared that he’s working on blending both attacking and defensive qualities in his game drawing inspiration from the legendary midfield duo.
“I like to be defensive and offensive. I know whenever I am in the opposite area, I have chances for a goal and I think defensively, I want to be stronger,” he told Sky Sports.
“I want to attack like Yaya Toure and defend like Michael Essien, so to have both qualities is good,” Partey added.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are hoping to have Partey back in their squad for the return leg against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday in the Champions League after being substituted after sustaining a knock in the game.