Arsenal vs Watford: 5 talking points from Premier League win

4. Thomas Partey’s Absence Through Injury Was Felt

The Ghanaian was missing due to a groin strain and Arsenal felt the void left by the 28-year-old.

The home side lacked the presence in midfield that Partey brings along with his excellent distribution going forward, and his ability to break up the play and feed line breaking passes, especially in the first half, was missed.

What was a positive sign is that Maitland-Niles brought such great energy into the midfield and put in a battling display.

It was not the best of afternoons for Sambi but as a midfield duo he and Maitland-Niles started to click early in the second half and found their spaces better. Then, as the game progressed, Sambi was being pressed into submission in the middle and needed more bodies around him in support. Partey would have come in handy in those instances, just to bring some calmness.

Against the better sides, it will be a true test depending on how long Partey is out for and if he is missing against Liverpool, then we will really see his true value. However, Arteta said post-match that he may not travel with Ghana for their international fixtures, so everyone will have to wait and see.

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