Thomas Partey Reveals Why He Doesn't Have His Surname On His Shirt

Arsenal fans might have started the Partey after their transfer deadline day signing but Thomas Partey revealed why his surname won't be on the back of his shirt for the Gunners.

Deadline day was full of terrible party puns on Sky Sports as the Premier League side finally signed a midfielder just before the window closed, when they activated the release clause on the former Atletico Madrid player's contract.

Fans are certainly excited about the Ghanaian but anyone who rushed out to get his name on the back of the shirt may have done so too quickly.

Speaking in his first interview with the club's website, Partey revealed why 'Thomas' will be on the back of his shirt and not 'Partey.'

"I've seen that there are Parteys everywhere and even the photographer asked me why I don't use Partey on my shirt. I said it's because I started with Thomas and people are familiar with Thomas, so I need to go with Thomas."

Speaking about the move, the 27-year-old added, "I've seen that everyone has been excited and everyone is willing to win something and all the trophies that come their way. I think that's the goal and objective for everyone here and that's my goal also.

"It's something that is difficult and we all know that it's difficult, but we're working towards it and I think we are ready. We have to go all out and try to achieve all of that ourselves.

"I think it was a new challenge for me. I've always wanted to play in the top leagues and the Premier League is one of the top leagues, so I'm happy to be here.

"I think it's a great challenge, I want to experience new challenges and also in a great family like Arsenal, I am ready to give it my all and try to help this great club come back to where they belong."

Partey was excellent against Liverpool in the Champions League. Image: PA Images

Partey wins the ball off Messi. Image: PA Images

Videos of the former Mallorca loanee playing for his national team and making Lionel Messi look like an average player have certainly got fans excited this week.

The player was clearly very happy to get his first shirt for the club and will be looking forward to getting his first start for Arteta's team.

The Gunners face Manchester City, where Partey could make his debut.

Ryan Sidle

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