Footage circulating on social media appears to show England full-back Djed Spence not shaking hands with Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey before their World Cup match in Boston. This incident occurred amidst doubts regarding whether Thomas Tuchel’s squad would engage in the customary pre-match ritual with the former Arsenal midfielder.

Partey is scheduled to stand trial next year. He has been charged with seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, stemming from allegations made by four different women between 2020 and 2022. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges, with his lawyer indicating that he welcomes the opportunity to clear his name.

Television coverage of the pre-match proceedings cut away at a key moment, but footage suggests Spence kept his hand in the right pocket of his tracksuit top as Partey walked past. This action seemingly surprised Partey, who reportedly glanced back at the Tottenham player before continuing.

Pre-match reception and visa issues

Partey received a mixed reception from the crowd at Boston Stadium. He was booed by England fans during his first appearance at this year’s World Cup. His name was met with boos when announced over the public address system before the Group L match, and his touches of the ball were frequently met with jeers.

The midfielder missed Ghana’s first game of the tournament against Panama in Toronto. He was denied entry into Canada after immigration officials refused his visa application. Court documents indicated that Partey’s application for a temporary resident visa, submitted in May, did not disclose his criminal charges, as he falsely answered “no” to a question about prior criminal offences or charges.

A judge in Ottawa rejected an emergency appeal filed by Partey’s lawyers regarding his entry into Canada. Despite this, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) stated that the US was aware of his pending court case. However, as he has not been convicted of a crime, he was admitted to the United States after being issued a visa. This allowed him to play against England.

The Football Association did not provide specific guidance to players regarding the pre-match handshake, leaving the decision to their discretion. Partey, who now plays for Villarreal, stated before the match that he felt “ready to play” against England.

Impact on the tournament

The situation surrounding Partey highlights broader issues at the World Cup regarding player entry and fan reception. Another player, Achraf Hakimi of Morocco, also faces trial over rape allegations and was booed by Scotland fans during his team’s match in Boston. A French appeals court confirmed that Hakimi will stand trial in his rape case hours before Morocco‘s second match of the tournament.

Partey’s contract at Villarreal is set to expire next week. Days later, he was charged by police.

The midfielder expressed happiness at the prospect of facing his former Arsenal teammates, Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice, hoping they would bring their best to the competition.

Partey is also eligible to play against Croatia in Philadelphia on 27 June.

Source: bbc.com

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