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Paul Merson described Thomas Partey as ‘atrocious’ for his contribution to Aston Villa’s equaliser during their 2-2 draw with Arsenal on Saturday night.
Paul Merson has criticized Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey for his role in Ollie Watkins’ equalizing goal during Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with Aston Villa on Saturday. Merson, speaking on Sky Sports’ post-match analysis, singled out Partey for his lackluster defending, which he described as “atrocious” and “criminal.”
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The goal came after Matty Cash swung a cross into the box, and Watkins managed to break free of his marker to volley the ball past David Raya. Merson was left in disbelief at how Watkins was allowed to get so much space and time to score. “It’s Partey, it’s Partey,” Merson exclaimed. “He gets back in, that’s his man. You cannot do that. That can’t win you league titles.”
Merson pointed out that Partey, who has experience playing for defensively disciplined teams like Atletico Madrid, should have been more aware of the danger and taken responsibility for marking Watkins. “You’re in a league title race. My man does not score. You take responsibility. He leaves him. You won’t see a worse defensive goal than that all weekend,” Merson added.
The draw against Villa leaves Arsenal six points behind Liverpool, who have a game in hand, and puts Villa above Manchester City in seventh place. Merson emphasized the need for Arsenal to be solid and disciplined in defense if they want to compete for the Premier League title.
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