Thomas Partey faces England teammates amid ongoing legal issues

Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey, who missed his team’s first World Cup match because he was denied a Canadian visa while awaiting trial on rape charges in Britain, returned to the lineup on Tuesday to an apparent snub in the pregame handshake line and a cool reception from fans. Videos also circulated on social media in which England defender Djed Spence appeared to refuse to shake hands with Partey before the match.

Footage shows defender keeping hand in pocket Partey denies allegations of rape and sexual assault Djed Spence appeared to be the only England player not to shake Thomas Partey’s hand before the World Cup game against Ghana in Boston. There had been doubts over whether Thomas Tuchel’s squad would snub the former Arsenal midfielder in the pre-match ritual. Partey is scheduled to go on trial next year at Southwark crown court after he was charged with five counts of rape and one of sexual assault last year. He was later charged with two further counts of rape. Partey has denied all the charges, with his lawyer insisting that he welcomes the chance to clear his name. Continue reading...

Thomas Partey is set to play in Ghana's World Cup match against England after being denied entry to Canada for their tournament opener with Panama.

Ghana midfielder has denied all accusations as he prepares to begin his World Cup campaign in Boston on Tuesday The Football Association has remained coy over what will happen when England line up for their next World Cup match against Ghana on Tuesday and come up against a familiar opponent in Thomas Partey. The former Arsenal midfielder played for Villarreal this season, but will be released at the end of his contract this month. In the pre-match ceremony, all players are expected to shake hands with opponents, and the FA will leave England’s players to decide whether they wish to go through the ritual with Partey. The squad includes two of his former club-mates, Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka. Continue reading...