Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey has discussed the humble beginnings that has seen him rise to a nominee for the 2018 BBC African Footballer of the Year award.

The Ghanaian international is in stiff competition with Medhi Benatia (Morocco), Kalidou Koulibaly (Senegal), Sadio Mane (Senegal) and Mohamed Salah (Egypt) for the prestigious award.

Partey deservedly earned his spot after an outstanding year, helping Atletico Madrid to Europa Cup glory and finishing the season as runners up in the La Liga. He played over 50 games for the Spanish giants last season.

In an interview with BBC Africa,  the 25 year old talked about the early struggles in his village where he was coached by his father who made a lot of sacrifices for him to reach his super stardom today.

"I started in a small village where my father was team manager. It was him selling his stuff to try to get me those new boots." He disclosed

Partey also revealed looking up to Former Ghana midfielder Michael Essien and Man City legend Yaya Toure in his formative years.

Watch full interview below:

By Daraja Mutari