Maroc - GHANASOCCERNET.COM - A la Une - 22/Jan 11:22

Mikel Arteta defends decision to play Thomas Partey at right-back

Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta has justified his decision to deploy Thomas Partey as a right-back during their 2-2 draw with Aston Villa.The Ghana international played the right back in the game against Unai Emery's side last weekend.Despite Partey's criticisms for his shaky performance, Arteta explained the reasoning behind the tactical adjustment"I had no choice. I didn't have another right full-back," he said."Who plays when Jurrien [Timber] isn't available or his load is too high? I didn't have another right-sided centre-back [against Aston Villa]," he added.The Gunners appeared to be on course to secure back-to-back wins as goals from Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz put the Gunners two in front.However, Villa pulled a goal back through Youri Tielemans before Ollie Watkins capitalised on poor defending from Thomas Partey to volley past David Raya from close range.The draw against Villa has left Arsenal six points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, who beat Brentford 2-0 earlier on Saturday and also have a game in hand.Arsenal will hope to return to winning ways when they host Dinamo Zagreb in the Champions League later tonight before travelling to play Wolves in the Premier League this weekend.