Arsenal legend Ian Wright has encouraged coach Mikel Arteta to start youngster Ethan Nwaneri instead of Thomas Partey in their upcoming game against Liverpool on Sunday. Wright believes that with Martin Odegaard absent, Nwaneri’s creativity could provide the edge Arsenal needs.

Reflecting on Arsenal’s recent loss to Bournemouth, Wright suggested a midfield lineup featuring Mikel Merino, Declan Rice, and Nwaneri, asserting that this combination could inject new energy and creativity. Wright commented on the Stick to Football podcast, “Against Bournemouth, you need someone who can create something in the middle. I would have gone with Merino, Rice, and Nwaneri at number 10 to bring something different.”

Partey has been crucial for Arsenal, especially in the Champions League, against Shakhtar Donetsk, contributing to the team’s campaign with 11 appearances and a goal.