‘Sensational’… Arsenal fans wowed by another player alongside Bukayo Saka in 2-2 draw vs Liverpool

Mikel Arteta watched his Arsenal side earn a dramatic point against Liverpool when the two sides met at the Emirates.

North London was prepared to play host to a blockbuster top-of-the-table clash between the Gunners and Arne Slot’s in-form Liverpool.

The two clubs were unable to be separated over 90 minutes, with Arsenal losing grip on two leading positions courtesy of goals from Bukayo Saka and Mikel Merino. 

On an afternoon when Arteta was forced to exercise his adaptability due to the host’s squad woes, one player shone brightly in a role far from his usual. 

Thomas Partey’s performance in numbers vs Liverpool

The biggest concern came from Arsenal’s defence, as Arteta was without Riccardo Calafiori and William Saliba.

Fortunately, the boss saw Jurrien Timber return however, the Dutchman was hooked early due to what appeared to be cramp, not eased by Gabriel Magalhaes’ injury. 

Arsenal ended the game with a back four of Myles Lewis-Skelly, Jakub Kiwior, Ben White and Thomas Partey, with the latter having arguably his strongest performance of the campaign. 

Playing 90 minutes at right back with the task of keeping Luis Diaz quiet, Partey passed the challenge with flying colours, with his numbers displaying just how assured he was on the right side of defence.

As expected, fans reacted to the Ghanaian’s performance throughout the game, seeing the 31-year-old receive high praise.

Arsenal fans applaud Partey

“They said his legs are tired. Nah….This brother is still in his prime,” one supporter declared in reaction to Partey’s dominance on the right.

Other fans were eager to draw attention to the form that the midfielder has shown of late, linking the Ghana international’s quality to his contract situation.

“Octopus playing for the new contact,” one said, with another sharing a similar stance, “Partey playing for a contract is killing me he’s playing Lahm in any position.”

Links to Philipp Lahm wasn’t the outcome that many fans would have expected when Partey was named at right-back, telling of how much the 31-year-old impressed against Liverpool.

“He’s been sensational this season!” An impressed Arsenal supporter said, which was echoed by others, “Insane performance today,” and “He was phenomenal.”

“I was hearing some say he was finished,” a fan questioned, with others emphasising the impact of Partey’s form.

“Partey is giving his all regardless of where Arteta puts him. Amazing start to the season. IF he stays fit, Arsenal will be in serious contention. I was worried about his RB role today against Diaz, but he won that battle.”

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