This Player Silenced Critics with Stellar Performance Against Shakhtar—Liverpool Awaits!

 By Danong

As a Gunner, it is criminal to even consider how Arsenal would have fared without Thomas Partey this season. The Ghana international has been on another level; after each game, it seems unfair not to extol his exceptional ability.

Interestingly, it has been claimed that Arsenal were willing to let Partey go in the summer and that he did not depart simply because his many pursuers were too afraid to make a formal offer to the Gunners.

At the time the narrative was that Partey's "legs were gone," implying that he was done; some claimed he was a liability in transition and a shadow of himself.

But 12 games into the season, the 31-year-old has proven his doubters wrong. He had never started more than four straight games for Arsenal before, but he has done so this season.

In fact, it's mind-boggling that a guy who was considered injury prone has played 11 of the 12 games Arsenal have played this season while other, less injury-prone players have missed games.

He stood out against Shakhtar Donetsk on Tuesday night, just like he has done in previous games. Call me biased, but I believe he outsmarted everyone on the pitch, particularly in the first half.

He was a formidable presence in midfield and right back on Tuesday night, demonstrating his unwavering commitment.

Thomas Partey vs. Shahtar Donetsk

-90 minutes played
-91 touches
-89% accurate passes (65/73)
-13 passes into the final third
- 62% ground duels won ( 5/8)
-50% tackles won (2/4)
 -3 recoveries
 -2 clearances
-1 interception
-1 chance created

After the Shakhtar game, one thing should be clear: he needs to play as DM. I'm weary of Arteta moving him to right back. It almost cost us the game on Tuesday in the Champions League.

On Sunday night as Arsenal take on Liverpool, surely the Ghana international should continue his resurgence as he continues to convince the Arsenal decision makers to tie him to a new deal, given he's heading for free agency next summer.