‘Strength and poise’: Alan Shearer lauds Arsenal player for his performance at Aston Villa this weekend

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It was a superb 1-0 win for Arsenal this weekend as they ground it out at Aston Villa to ensure their push for the top four remains very much on course ahead of the international break.

A goal from Bukayo Saka – who endured a rough afternoon at the hands of Villa – was enough for the Gunners to pick up another win and vital three points. Naturally, Mikel Arteta was delighted with the win and some of his key players really stepped up to the mark.

One of those players was midfielder, Thomas Partey. The Ghana international has been at his best in recent weeks and once again looked the business in the middle of the park this weekend. And selecting his team of the week for PremierLeague.com, former England man Alan Shearer has praised Partey for his contribution.

“Bossed the midfield with his strength and poise. Partey has been key to Arsenal’s return to form,” Shearer said of Partey.

Partey has struggled at times since signing for Arsenal from Atletico Madrid. But that has mainly been down to struggles with niggling injuries and fitness. When he has played, he’s generally been excellent.

In recent weeks he’s been one of the best midfielders in the league and it’s little wonder that Shearer has took notice.

TBR’s View: Partey Vital For Arsenal And Top Four

If Arsenal can keep Thomas Partey fit and playing as he is, then the top four is theirs to lose really. His partnership with Granit Xhaka has been key for the Gunners and will continue to be for the rest of the season.

Arteta knew what he was getting when he signed Partey, it’s just taken that little bit longer than expected to get the very best from his man.

Now, both Arsenal and Arteta are reaping the rewards of Partey’s form.