Arteta names player that will have ‘really big’ impact in title race

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is backing Thomas Partey to have a “really big impact” in the Premier League title race.

The Ghana midfielder has only played four league fixtures this campaign, as he battled with different injuries.

But Partey is expected to be part of the Gunners’ squad for Monday’s game at Sheffield United.

Arteta is looking forward to pairing Partey with record-signing Declan Rice.

Rice, who moved to Arsenal in the summer for £105m, played with Partey in midfield for the Community Shield win over Manchester City in August.

Arteta told reporters: “I will have to see that chemistry on the pitch, and those qualities, and the things we have to treat around to make sure they play to their strengths and make each other better.

“But I think that will be a very powerful midfield.

“I think they only played in the Community Shield together in midfield. That tells you how much we have missed Thomas.

“To play the whole season – and a player like him who has not played much with us – the impact he can have for the next three months can be really big.”