THOMAS PARTEY'S former coach has likened him to Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira – but insisted he is 'more skilful'.

The £45million summer signing from Atletico Madrid earned rave reviews after his full debut against Rapid Vienna.

Owen Hargreaves claimed it was 'one of the best' debut performances he had ever seen.

And Gunners legend Martin Keown likened the midfielder to club legend Patrick Vieira.

Tony Lokko, who coached Partey as a teenager for Tema Youth in Ghana, is in agreement with Keown.

ARSENAL NEWS LIVE: Click here for the latest Gunners news

Speaking to The Mail on Sunday, he said: "I believe he's going to have a big impact.

"I see him play like Vieira. But he is more skilful.

"Vieira was a ball-winner but, with Thomas, he is more offensive.

"Thomas is kind-hearted. He is not the type to get angry. Very focused. A good listener.

"He always wants to learn more. And he will not relent on something until he is able to do it. Now he has.

Most read in Sport

"He is now the Thomas that I expected."

Team president Wilfred Osei Palmer has tipped Partey to 'be better' than his idol and former Chelsea legend Michael Essien.

He said: "They share a similar role. Essien was box-to-box and also applies the brain-work.

"Thomas has got good timing, energy but not as boisterous.

"In terms of power and drive they have similar qualities.

"He can turn a defensive position into an offensive opportunity. He plays long searching passes.

"Thomas will grow and have better qualities than Essien, trust me. Yes, Thomas will give you something better."

The Ghanaian midfielder is in line to make his full Premier League debut against Leicester City.

He belted out his initiation song in front of his team-mates ahead of the game against the Foxes.

Partey came off the bench during their Premier League defeat at Manchester City last week.

Source: Read Full Article