Arsenal midfielder, Thomas Partey, has been identified by Black Stars head coach Chris Hughton as an important player.
Following a string of disappointing game performances, Thomas Partey’s future with the Black Stars has come into focus.
Partey has been criticised for his commitment to his club rather than the national team, and there have been calls for Chris Hughton to remove the midfielder from the squad.
Chris Hughton said Partey is an important team member when asked about the situation on Monday, March 20, 2023, during his unveiling.
The 29-year-old, according to him, is the link between the midfield and the defence, and he claimed that because he does not consistently score goals and provide assists, people tend to criticise him.
“Partey’s role in the team is as a continuity player…he is not that guy who is going to dribble past multiple players. His role is important to what the team does even if he doesn’t always standout.”.
He urged Ghanaians not to compare Partey’s performance for Arsenal and for the country as he plays distinct roles for both entities.
“Sometimes as football fans, we assume a player must necessarily fit the frame we have of him in an A team in a B team. Partey’s roles are both club and country are different from each other, but key.”
Chris Hughton also disclosed during his unveiling that he will pay attention to the Ghana Premier League and give selections to players who impress.
Another issue of concern was his contract and Chris Hughton disclosed that he is impressed with the two-year contract he agreed on with the FA.
The contract is expected to expire in December 2024 with Chris Hughton billed to win qualify Ghana to the 2023 AFCON and win it.