Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey admits ex-Chelsea star and countryman Michael Essien is his idol.

The Ghanian was a huge force in the Premier League in the 2000s, typifying what it meant to be an all action, box to box midfielder.

He was strong in the tackle as he was sure of his passing and shooting.

And Partey hopes he can make a similar impact with the Gunners.

"He's a fantastic midfielder," Partey told Arsenal.com.

"He fights for every ball, he's a great legend. For me, he's one of the best midfielders that we've ever had in Africa.

"I think we've all seen what he has done at Chelsea, what he has done for the Black Stars and for me, he's my idol.

"I grew up watching Michael Essien, Muntari, the Ayew brothers - they are the people I look up to and they made a lot of impact on Ghanaians. I think this is my moment and I have to make sure I take it."