Martin Keown claims to see shades of Patrick Vieira in Thomas Partey, considering Arsenal’s £45 million ($59m) summer signing to be “silky smooth” like his legendary predecessor in the Gunners engine room.
The north London side have been crying out for another commanding performer at the heart of their team.
World Cup winners Vieira and Gilberto Silva once provided those qualities as Arsenal enjoyed Premier League title triumphs under Arsene Wenger.
Editors' Picks
Mikel Arteta is being charged with the task of recapturing former glories, and the Spaniard is following a familiar blueprint.