Mikel Arteta has sprung a major Arsenal surprise for supporters with Thomas Partey having been named on the bench against Liverpool.
The Ghanaian midfielder returned to north London following Ghana’s elimination from the Africa Cup of Nations.
The Black Stars finished bottom of Group C having only taken a solitary point from their three group matches.
Their fate was sealed on Tuesday as they fell to a shock 3-2 defeat to African minnows Comoros, despite having fought back from two goals behind following Andre Ayew’s red card in the 25th minute of the clash.
With Ghana’s elimination being in such close proximity to Arsenal ’s Carabao Cup showdown with Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium, it was not expected that Partey would play any part, Arteta suggesting that the midfielder would have been left feeling hugely disappointed.
Talking in his pre-match press conference, he said: “It was a huge disappointment for Thomas obviously because he was representing his country and in this period he had big aims towards the competition.
“He's out now so he will be fully focused and involved with Arsenal as soon as possible.”
The 28-year-old though is set to be involved against Liverpool, having been granted a place on the Gunners’ substitutes’ bench and Arsenal fans have been giving their thoughts.
Ahead of the clash with the Reds, Partey had made 17 appearances for Arsenal throughout the 2021/22 season, with his only goal coming in a 3-1 victory against Aston Villa back in October.
He will certainly hope to play a part as Arsenal aim to book their place in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley.
Should they find a way at Liverpool, they will square-off with London rivals Chelsea on 27 February.
