That's not really what he said.
And what he said was basically true. Everyone calling for Partington's inclusion is doing so based on the fact he's getting high-20 possessions and kicking a goal a game. That's great but it's not the be all and end all. If he's not working defensively or he's butchering the ball then his stats alone won't justify his inclusion.
I've only watched a few Royals games this year but he's never stood out to me and made me think "wow, we need this kid in the seniors immediately".
I want him in the side but that's more because I think we're not getting enough kids through the system and he's the obvious answer to that.
All we ask is that each player be given the same opportunity.
Lecras goes at 35% DE, does F-all the whole game.
Priddis couldn't catch a sloth defensively.
But they get a pass mark?
Took 15 weeks for them to wise up to Masten being below the standard along with Wellingham.
Sure, Parto might need to work on his defensive efforts, in fact, I'm sure he's probably got to work on about EVERY aspect of his game, as he hasn't even played a game yet.
But there are clearly players getting a game who aren't up to standard, yet Parto is expected to do far more than these players are currently doing week on week.