Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has explained his decision to play Thomas Partey in defence during the club's opening Premier League fixture on Saturday, August 12.

Partey started in right-back as the Gunners secured a 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest at home, a decision many were surprised to see.

The Ghanaian was deployed in defence despite the arrival of Jurriem Timber from Ajax this summer and the availability of other options.

However, Partey went on to star for the North London side as they claimed victory in their first game of the season.

Arteta, after the game, spoke about the rationale behind the decision to give the former Atletico Madrid midfielder that role against Forest.

“We expected a game that actually happened and we needed somebody else there in midfield to do what we have to do the best, and have more fluidity and occupy certain spaces in relation to how they were defending," he said.

"I think it worked really well."

Goals from Black Stars target Eddie Nketiah and Bukayo Saka were enough for Arsenal despite a late goal from Taiwo Awoniyi.