Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey, who is facing rape accusations, is preparing to play against England as both teams meet in Boston as part of the World Cup group stage. Across reports, Partey is described as denying the allegations. In the build-up, he tells reporters he is “ready to play” and says issues “outside football” are “things you cannot control,” including reference to complications around his World Cup participation. Part of the spotlight is that England’s squad includes Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, who are former Arsenal teammates of Partey, creating a familiar matchup for Partey and for the England players.
Sources also describe the pre-match handshake protocol: players are expected to shake hands before the match, while the Football Association is reported to be leaving the decision on whether England players take part with Partey. Partey’s club situation is also noted, with references to him playing earlier in the season and being due to leave his current club at the end of the contract period.
