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Arsenal legend Ian Wright has called on head coach Mikel Arteta to consider starting young midfielder Ethan Nwaneri instead of Thomas Partey in Arsenal’s upcoming clash against Liverpool on Sunday.
Wright suggests that with the absence of playmaker Martin Odegaard, Nwaneri could be instrumental in controlling the game and giving the Gunners a competitive edge. Reflecting on Arsenal’s recent defeat to Bournemouth, Wright recommended a potential midfield lineup of Mikel Merino, Declan Rice, and Ethan Nwaneri, emphasizing the need for creativity and drive in the squad.
“When I saw [Mikel] Merino, [Thomas] Partey, and [Declan] Rice, I was thinking [Ethan] Nwaneri, the youngster,” Wright shared on the *Stick to Football* podcast. “Against Bournemouth, you need someone who can [generate play and create], and that’s exactly what we were lacking. We needed someone to take on defenders – I would have taken a chance on him – I would have had Merino, Rice, and Nwaneri playing [at number 10] to bring a fresh element.”
While Thomas Partey has been pivotal for Arsenal this season, especially in their recent Champions League performance against FC Shakhtar Donetsk, Wright’s recommendation opens up a strategic discussion for Arteta ahead of the high-stakes Liverpool match. Partey has made 11 appearances this season, contributing one goal for the Gunners.