Midfielder Thomas Partey says he is happy to play anywhere for Ghana.
Often used in more attacking positions at the national team, the Arsenal star started out in a deep midfield role protecting the defence as the Black Stars secured a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Zimbabwe in a Qatar 2022 Fifa World Cup qualifier on Saturday.
Partey would be liberated by the introduction of Real Mallorca’s Baba Iddrisu later in the second half. Pushing forward, he scored Ghana’s second through a brilliant solo effort in the 66th minute – his 11th international goal in 33 appearances since debuting in 2016.
The 28-year-old has always thrived when given the freedom to attack with the majority of his international goals coming as a result of such a role.
The opposite was the case at the start of the game against the Warriors as new head coach Milovan Rajevac preferred to deploy Partey just as he has been used to since joining Arsenal under Mikel Arteta.
“I feel good, especially because we were able to win the game. The most important thing is to get the results after a hard day and so we are happy,” Partey remarked on his goal in a post-match presser.
Versatile Partey, who also thrives as a right-back, has no issues having to switch positions to help the course of the Black Stars.
“I think it is the decision of the coach and he knows where every player on the pitch can play.
“We started with me playing behind because we have a lot of talent ahead who can score goals. The couch made a change for Baba to come in and I moved forward.
“Everywhere on the pitch where I can help in the national team, I am ready to sacrifice. I don’t mind defending or attacking,” the Black Stars deputy captain stated.
“Every time I have to play for Ghana, I don’t mind sacrificing and playing in every position,” Partey emphasized
With six points, Ghana are second behind South Africa in Group G of the African qualifiers to Qatar 2022. They are one point adrift the leaders after 3 matches and face Zimbabwe again in a reverse on Tuesday, October 12.
