The former Manchester United defender was hysterical (Image: YouTube/Vibe with FIVE)

Rio Ferdinand has joined Arsenal as Thomas Partey remains out of the team and mocks fans who want to cash in on the Ghanaian in January.

The 30-year-old played a key role in Mikel Arteta’s starting XI last season but has made just four Premier League appearances this season as a series of injuries limited his involvement.

A groin injury forced him out in September and after a brief return to action he suffered a hamstring injury and is not expected to return until the new year.

When he eventually returns, he will compete directly with Ghana at the Africa Cup of Nations, which takes place from January 13 to February 11.

There have been suggestions that Partey could be released in January, with interest from Saudi Arabia, but Ferdinand believes he is still a top player even if he has failed to prove it this season.

Speaking on his YouTube show Vibe with FIVE, Ferdinand said: “Thomas Partey is irreplaceable by the way.” [according to Arsenal fans] but he hasn’t been seen yet this season! Not even mentioned in the show.

“What happened to Thomas Partey?!” Where is Thomas? Someone free Thomas Partey. Please, I need to see him again, man.”

Partey has played 15 minutes in the league since August (Image: Getty)

When it was suggested the Gunners should sack Partey, Ferdinand replied: “He was the best defensive midfielder in the world last season.” [according to Arsenal fans] and now he has to leave?!

‘What do you mean he has to go? Ah buddy, seriously, I’ve had enough. He has to go! They said at the start of the season: “Partey, the best defensive midfielder in the country, should play there and Rice will go on the left.”

“That’s what you said, you threw your £100million player away on the left!” Thomas, I want you to stay, buddy. I respect you. I respect his game.’

Ferdinand was clearly in a particularly playful mood when it came to discussing Premier League leaders Arsenal.

As well as mocking Partey’s situation, he also praised the latest record of Mikel Arteta – who recorded more wins than any other Gunners boss in his first 200 games as manager – and Kai Havertz’s winning goal from the bench against Brentford.

On Arteta’s record, he said: “But how many trophies has Wenger won in his first 200 games in comparison?” [Arteta]? So this statistic doesn’t really mean anything, right?’

And about Havertz, he added: “He had a 10-minute cameo!” Was he man of the match? “Declan Rice was the man of the match in that game.”