Diego Simeone delighted with Partey’s performance in Girona draw

Diego Simeone has expressed his satisfaction with Thomas Partey’s performance as Atletico Madrid came from behind to snatch a late point away to Girona.

The Ghanaian international lasted the full throttle as an own goal from Brazilian forward Ramalho cancelled out Christian Stuani’s early strike from the spot.

It was Atleti’s third draw in four games but the Argentine boss remained upbeat.

“This is always a very tough, challenging match for us,” Simeone told reporters after the match.

“We had good moments apart from their goal and in the second half, we needed to remain calm and have faith in our method and approach.

“In the last 20 minutes we could have won the game or we could have lost it, so in the end, a draw was maybe the right outcome.

“I thought with Koke and Thomas Partey in the middle and the players going down the wings, as well as Diego Costa and Antoine Griezmann up front, we had our chances.

“Things were difficult for the entire game and they are a really tough side to play against, so a draw is an acceptable outcome.”