Thomas Partey features as Atletico win to close gap on Barcelona

Thomas Partey was handed starting berth for the second time in four days as Atletico Madrid yet another emphatic victory over Leganes to close the gap on leaders Barcelona.

Antoine Griezmann scored four goals, to add to a hat-trick at the weekend, as Atleti thrashed Leganes 4-0 for an eighth win in a row.

Partey, 24, won four tackles - second highest - before he was replaced by Vitolo in the 60th minute.

It was his 16th start in La Liga this season having netted five goals.

Atletico are four points behind Barca, who visit Las Palmas on Thursday.

Diego Simeone's side, whose eight consecutive wins have come in all competitions, visit the Nou Camp on Sunday in a game that could help set up a late title race.