Villarreal head coach Marcelino García Toral has expressed full confidence in Thomas Partey ahead of their UEFA Champions League clash with Tottenham Hotspur in London on Tuesday night.
The 31-year-old Ghana midfielder, who previously spent three seasons in north London with Arsenal, is expected to play a central role when Villarreal visit the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with kick-off at 19:00 GMT.
Marcelino was emphatic in his praise for Partey’s readiness, both on and off the pitch.
“I am totally convinced that he is mentally prepared and technically prepared to play tomorrow night. For sure he will be ready,” he said.
“We are very happy Thomas is with us for his football capacity, football ability and his presence as a human.”
The Spanish gaffer also pointed to Partey’s wealth of experience, having featured for Atlético Madrid and Arsenal at the highest level, as a key asset for Villarreal’s European ambitions.
“He is a great player with a lot of experience. He has played for a lot of top clubs. We know he has a great level. I think he will get back to a top level. I am very happy he is with us in the team,” Marcelino added.
Partey’s return to London brings added intrigue to a tie in which Villarreal will look to impose themselves against a Tottenham side eager to stamp their authority early in the group stage.
By: Pascal Amoah
