Arteta praises Partey in new role

Mikel Arteta has downplayed concerns over Thomas Partey's performance in the 1-0 defeat to Newcastle United.

The midfielder did well in a makeshift right-back role, earning a high rating from our in-house editor. However, some fans on social media called Arteta out for playing Partey at right-back - which is not his usual position.

"I’ll need to make that assessment once I have more clarity about where he [Partey] struggled," said the Arsenal boss after the Newcastle loss.

"I don’t have the impression he struggled much. Every time we have that situation with Thomas playing a different position because we don’t have another right-back at the moment.

"We’re always going to have that debate and Thomas is fantastic."--Tribunal