Ghana coach Chris Hughton says Thomas Partey’s place in the team might not be in danger as suggested by many following transfer reports linking the player to Saudi Arabia.
The Black Stars deputy captain has been linked with a move away from Arsenal with Saudi Arabian clubs believed to be in the lead for the signature.
While many have advised the player to consider his national team career before agreeing on any move, Hughton believes, regardless of where Partey plays his abilities cannot be disputed.
According to him, while the competitiveness of a league is important in player selection, what is more important is to see the player play regularly in order to maintain fitness.
“No. Thomas is an experienced player. He had a wonderful season at Arsenal last season. I think, first it’s about playing. And of course, it’s about the league that they are playing in. You know players got to be playing regularly to keep up their levels of fitness. When we looked at the Black Stars our players would be scattered throughout Europe. Some play in the best leagues and some play in other leagues which are not of the same level but it’s about playing regularly,” he told Talksport.
The 30-year-old was an essential player for Arsenal last season where he helped the team as they chased the Premier League title. Despite being on top of the table for a long time, the Gunners failed to win the title with Manchester City taking over in the latter stages of the competition.
During that period, Partey lost his position to Jorginho who had recently joined the team from Chelsea which indicated a move from the North London club was possible. Arsenal have added Declan Rice to their list of midfielders as the England international emerged as the most expensive Arsenal player after completing his move from West Ham.
Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta mentioned last week that the player was a ‘super important’ player and he was looking forward to continuing with him next season.