Thomas Partey: Arsenal Manager Mikel Arteta Waxes Lyrical Over Midfielder's Display Against Chelsea

• Thomas Partey made his first EPL start since returning from injury
• The midfielder helped Arsenal to a big win against Chelsea on Tuesday
• Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was impressed with the Ghana midfielder

Mikel Arteta has praised the performance of Thomas Partey in Arsenal's 5-0 demolishing of Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night.

The Ghana international started his first Premier League game since returning from injury as the Gunners recorded an emphatic win and opened their lead at the top of the table to four points, with Manchester City having two games in hand.

Although Partey has battled injuries this season, his presence in Arsenal's midfield against Chelsea was largely felt as the North London club dominated their rivals.

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Arteta admitted Arsenal missed Partey but believes it was also an opportunity for other players to show their worth.

"I don’t know, but then we would have won every game because look at the run we are in, the amount of points we have already and we have missed Thomas, that’s true, since August and he’s a big player for us," he said, as quoted by the club's official website.

"But as well that has given the chance to all the players, to Declan to play as a six, to rediscover Declan as an eight, playing Kai as a nine, the contribution of Jorgi, he has been absolutely phenomenal as well.

"And the team has resources, and it has to find different ways of winning and acting and interchanging the qualities. I’m really happy."

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Partey is expected to start in the North London derby against Tottenham Hotspurs on Sunday.

The 30-year-old has made only ten Premier League appearances this season, per Transfermarkt.

Partey dummies Caicedo with cheeky skills

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Thomas Partey showed class after returning to Arsenal's Premier League starting line-up for the first time since recovering from injury.

The Ghana international starred as the Gunners tore apart Chelsea in the London derby on Tuesday night to open a four-point lead at the top of the table.

A brace each from Ben White and Kai Harvetz as well as an early strike from Leandro Trossard ensured the host strolled to a 5-0 victory at the Emirates Stadium.