Premier League side Arsenal have handed Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey his ‘lucky’ No.5 jersey after using No.18 in his first season.
The 28-year-old joined the Gunners from LaLiga champions Atletico Madrid on the deadline day of the summer 2020 transfer window after his 50m euros (£45.3m) release clause was paid.
Partey was using the number five jersey at the Spanish side before the move, and also wears it at the Ghana national team.
“Thomas Partey will wear the No 5 shirt for the forthcoming season, changing from the No 18 he wore following his arrival from Atletico Madrid in October,” the club said on Tuesday.
𝐓 𝐇 𝐎 𝐌 𝐀 𝟓
🔥 @Thomaspartey22 pic.twitter.com/BMVKKC5xVV
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) June 29, 2021
Talking about the switch, Partey says it is a jersey he has been wearing for the past few years and feels it is a lucky number for him.
“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.
“It’s the number I’ve worn for the past few years, so for me, it’s one of the best numbers.”
🤳 So why No 5, Thomas? #TP5 | @Thomaspartey22 pic.twitter.com/OdqMEIwOXW
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) June 29, 2021
Recurring injuries have restricted Thomas Partey to only 24 appearances in all competitions for Arsenal last season. He provided two assists and no goal to his name.
By Abdul Karim Adamu Benin | www.sportyafrica.com
