England players are expected to shake hands with Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey before Tuesday’s FIFA World Cup Group L clash in Boston despite the legal case surrounding the former Arsenal player.Partey missed Ghana’s opening 1-0 win over Panama after being denied entry into Canada because of ongoing criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom. However, he is expected to be available for the match against England after being cleared to enter the United States.Several England players, including Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, shared a dressing room with Partey during their time at Arsenal.According to reports, the English Football Association has not issued any guidance to England players regarding pre-match handshakes. As a result, the customary handshake between both teams is expected to go ahead before kick-off.FA chief executive Mark Bullingham said England’s focus should remain on football during the tournament, while manager Thomas Tuchel stressed that his team should not be drawn into political or off-field matters.”At some point, it must be allowed for a football team that is sent to a World Cup to be a football team and not be a political statement,” Tuchel said.Partey has pleaded not guilty to seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault relating to allegations made by four women. His trial is expected to begin in January 2027.His lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, previously said the Ghana international “continues to deny all charges” and has “cooperated fully with the police throughout.”The 33-year-old’s expected return is a significant boost for Ghana as they prepare for a crucial meeting with England after opening their World Cup campaign with victory over Panama.
England players expected to shake hands with Thomas Partey before World Cup clash
