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Football London
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Luke Thrower

What Thomas Partey did at full-time after Bournemouth win as Arsenal star pays touching tribute

Amidst all the drama at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday - where a 97th minute Reiss Nelson strike sealed a huge win for Arsenal against Bournemouth - there was a moment for reflection at the end of the game. That came through midfielder Thomas Partey, who revealed a touching tribute when celebrating the win.

Underneath the 29-year-old's Arsenal shirt was a white base layer that had the words, "Rest well Christian Atsu" written on them. It was a moment for the midfielder to pay his respects to a former teammate of his from the Ghanaian national team in their time playing together.

Former Chelsea and Newcastle forward Atsu was in Turkey during the tragic earthquake that hit the nation, killing thousands of people. The 31-year-old had moved to the country to play for Hatayspor, but after conflicting reports as to his safety, it was later confirmed he had tragically passed away.

READ MORE: 'Dream is becoming reality' - National media give verdict on Arsenal's late win over Bournemouth

Hatayspor have confirmed that Atsu's funeral will take place later this month, with the details confirming that it will be held in Ghana. Partey's tribute to his compatriot came in the midfielder's first start since the tragic announcement was made last month, having struggled with injury over the past few weeks.

The former Atletico Madrid man found the back of the net against Bournemouth on Saturday, doing so when his side were 2-0 down with their backs against the wall after Phillip Billing and Marco Senesi struck twice. Ben White drew the game level shortly after, offering hope of all three points.

It appeared as though the points would be shared, but that wasn't the case in the end as Nelson's strike from the edge of the box deep into injury time decided the fate of the game. The result means Arsenal remain top of the table and five points clear of title rivals Manchester City.

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