Thomas Partey has lauded Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone for his role in getting him to the stage he is.

The Ghana international played five seasons under the Argentine coach during his time at Atletico after being promoted to the first team in July 2015.

He managed 188 appearances across all competitions for the Madrid-based outfit, scoring 16 goals and providing 12 assists.

Quizzed in an interview with Kafui Dey on what it felt like playing under Simeone, Partey said, "He's a coach that brings the best out of you mentally because he knows when you are strong here, you can always give your best."

"And when you understand him and how he wants to play, he's a coach that only wants to win. You don't need to be extra or anything, you just have to win, and he likes hardworking players. He even wants his striker to come and defend at the back.

"He's someone that you need to give your best to, and he can give you in return."

Partey left Atletico to join Arsenal in 2020 after the Londoners activated his release clause.