Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has once again spoke of his admiration for Chelsea legend Michael Essien.

He told the club’s website: “He’s a fantastic midfielder. He fights for every ball, he’s a great legend.

“For me, he’s one of the best midfielders that we’ve ever had in Africa.

“I think we’ve all seen what he has done at Chelsea, what he has done for the Black Stars and for me, he’s my idol.

“I grew up watching Michael Essien, [Sulley] Muntari, the Ayew brothers – they are the people I look up to and they made a lot of impact on Ghanaians. I think this is my moment and I have to make sure I take it.”