Back to the Arsenal Newsfeed

Mikel Arteta admits he has to 'protect' Thomas Partey following his fitness issues after hailing the 'big influence' of Arsenal's £45m signing as he returns from injury with a bang

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has heaped praised on midfielder Thomas Partey following his performance on his first start since returning froom injury.

The 27-year-old was sidelined for over a month with a hip issue and played a cameo role in the Gunners' 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace off the bench last week.

Arteta threw their £45million summer signing into the fray from the off on Monday night against Newcastle and the former Atletico Madrid man put in an impressive display.

Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey made his first start since his recent hip injury against Newcastle on Monday
Gunners boss Mikel Arteta heaped praise on Partey

'Really happy,' Arteta said of Partey to Sky Sports.