Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has revealed that Thomas Partey was only back in the UK for a matter of hours ahead of being named on the bench against Liverpool.
The Ghanaian was among the substitutes for the Gunners as they hosted the Reds on Thursday evening, that decision coming just 48 hours after his nation Ghana had been knocked out of the African Cup of Nations in the group stages.
It was certainly not expected that the midfielder would play any part at all at the Emirates Stadium, with a return in Arsenal’s Premier League clash against Burnley looking far more likely.
Ahead of the tie, Arteta praised the former Atletico Madrid man for his dedication to the cause as the Gunners looked for a place in the Carabao Cup final against London rivals Chelsea, as he travelled to the game practically straight after landing in the UK.
Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of kick-off, the Spaniard said: “I am really pleased with that. He shows his commitment. He was really disappointed to go out of the AFCON and straight away he said ‘I want to be involved.’
“He landed at midday and came straight to the hotel and he wants to be there on the bench to help.”
Partey’s return was certainly a welcome boost, with a number of midfield problems having hit the squad.
Unlike the Ghanaian, Mohamed Elneny was still participating in the tournament, whilst Swiss enforced Granit Xhaka was suspended after the straight red card he was awarded in the first-leg at Anfield.
Despite Partey's quickfire return, his evening soon turned sour.
Soon after being introduced to the fray, Liverpool doubled their lead through Diogo Jota, whilst the midfielder was awarded a red card for two bookable offences.
He will now miss Sunday's Premier League showdown with Burnley through suspension.
