Thomas Partey explains decision to switch Arsenal squad number
Thomas Partey believes his new squad number will bring him extra luck and signifies the increasingly important role he will play for Arsenal next season.
The Ghana international joined the Gunners from Ateltico Madrid during a frantic summer deadline day last summer, when Mikel Arteta and Edu sanctioned the
decision to trigger his £45million release clause.
Partey was able to show only glimpses of his best form, however, with a series of muscular injuries undermining his progress during a difficult first season at the Emirates Stadium.
Arteta still regards the 28-year-old as a key component of his side and he is set to assume greater responsibility in light of Granit Xhaka’s impending departure to Roma.
That senior status is set to be reflected by the fact he will wear the No.5 shirt next term. Partey wanted that number upon signing for the club, but it was already taken by Sokratis Papastathopoulos who joined Olympiacos in January.
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‘I like the No.5 because it’s one of the
most important numbers in the team and
it is also a lucky number for me,’ he told Arsenal’s official website upon confirmation of the change.
‘It’s the number’s I’ve worn for the past few years, so for me it’s one of the best numbers.’
Asked earlier this month how he rated his first season with the Gunners, Partey told Ghana’s TV3: ‘Well I think every body has seen it, there’s been ups and downs.
