Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane isn't sure whether Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has the leadership qualities to take Ghana far in the World Cup.

Partey is the biggest name in the Ghana squad but struggled to make much of an impact in Thursday's opener against Portugal.

Ghana made a decent showing of themselves but ultimately lost 3-2 as Cristiano Ronaldo became the first player to score at five separate World Cups.

Roy Keane isn't convinced by the leadership qualities of Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey (R)

‘Well he’s (Partey) having a very good season,’ Keane told ITV Sport. ‘He’s settled down, he had a lot of injury problems when he first went to Arsenal.

‘He’s got a big role here because there are some inexperienced players around him. I’m still not convinced he’s got those leadership skills.

‘But a very good player and he’ll have a big part to play today because there’s a big responsibility, particularly in the middle of the park, of course a huge position on the pitch.

‘He’s had a good season, he should be confident, but it’s a big challenge for him in the middle of the park to help the players around him.’

Graeme Souness also delivered his verdict on the Gunners star, adding to ITV: ‘I think he’s got better.

‘It took him a wee bit of time to adjust to our game. I think he’s got a bit of everything and I think you’re going to see him improve in his days at Arsenal.

‘He’s got all the attributes to be a very, very good player in our football. This is another stage for him, get out there and show you can do it on this stage as well.’