England players will individually decide whether or not to shake hands with Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey before their FIFA World Cup Group L match against Ghana in Boston, according to UK media reports.
The English Football Association (FA) is not expected to issue any instructions regarding the customary pre-match handshake involving Partey, who is facing ongoing legal proceedings in the UK but denies all allegations. The FA reportedly wants attention to remain on football and will leave the decision to each player.
England coach Thomas Tuchel has also avoided commenting on off-field issues, focusing instead on match preparation, and there have been no formal team discussions about the matter.
The issue is likely to attract attention as several England players, including Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, previously played alongside Partey at Arsenal.
Partey is expected to return for Ghana after missing their opening 1-0 win over Panama due to visa issues in Canada. His absence forced Ghana to start their campaign without one of their key senior players.
Despite that setback, Ghana secured a late victory through Caleb Yirenkyi’s stoppage-time goal.
Reports also indicate that Canadian authorities rejected an appeal related to Partey’s visa after concerns were raised about his legal situation and disclosure of charges.
The midfielder is currently facing multiple charges in the UK and is due to stand trial next year, though he continues to deny all allegations.
Both teams are now focused on their World Cup campaign, with the match expected to play a crucial role in Group D qualification.
Source: myjoyonline.com
