In a season that has been dominated by injuries and suspensions, the form of Thomas Partey has served as a glimmer of optimism in what has become an increasingly challenging start to the campaign.

The Ghanaian spent much of last season on the sidelines due to a myriad of fitness issues, and when he returned for the run-in, looked leggy and out of touch with the pace and precision of Arsenal’s game. It seemed that Arsenal had evolved past the use of this once integral figure, with many eager to see a permanent departure during the transfer window. Mikel Arteta, however, could always see the merit of the midfielder.

That is not to say that he hasn’t had his critics this season. He has been a player that has had to work and play his way back into form and perhaps crucially, fitness.

In the last few weeks, he has looked the dominating midfielder that Arsenal need.

His physicality allows him to protect the ball but manipulate it simultaneously, adding shape and structure to the base of Arsenal’s midfield.

On Tuesday night, Arsenal dominated the first 45 minutes, largely due to the presence and quick passing of Partey. His awareness of his surroundings allowed Arsenal to continually break the Shakhtar press, which should have led to more than just a one-goal lead.

With Ben White on a yellow card though, Arsenal could not run the risk of losing another player to discipline, forcing a change that saw Partey shift to right back in order to allow Mikel Merino to partner Declan Rice in midfield. The outcome was immediately alarming.

The second half performance was a mess. The visitors lack of quality in the final third ensured that Arsenal got away with three points, but the display will be hugely alarming to Arteta. The Gunners are so often lauded, and on occasion this season scolded, for their structure and discipline. The display in the second half though was a far cry from the stability that has become a hallmark of an Arteta side.

Rice possesses many incredible attributes, not least his unrelenting energy and desire to win. He is a player that can thrive as a six, as he has shown for both club and country. His best performances in an Arsenal shirt though have seen him dominate the left side as an eight. As the sitter, he looks rusty.     

Partey’s repositioning was not the only reason for the second half display. Arteta has blamed fatigue, while most will point to the obvious absence of arguably Arsenal’s two best players.

With an unknown return date for both Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard and a relentless fixture list, this is an excuse that Arsenal simply cannot afford to impact them.

Jurrien Timber’s absence is a big problem.

His availability on Sunday could well determine whether Partey is required to continue at full back. It is a role that he is more than capable of fulfilling, but his presence in the middle of the pitch is something that Arteta would love to have in his weaponry. 

Liverpool's visit will be a challenge that will require a depleted Arsenal to be at their absolute best.

Anything below that will likely us seven points off the pace at the end of the weekend. 

There are many fitness unknowns that could yet change the narrative, but the role of Partey could well be a deciding factor in igniting our season.