England players will not be prevented from shaking hands with Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey when the two countries meet at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to reports from The Telegraph.
Earlier reports had suggested that the English Football Association was considering advising members of the England squad to avoid greeting the former Arsenal midfielder, who is currently facing charges of rape and sexual assault in the United Kingdom.
However, the latest report indicates that the FA will not issue any guidance to players regarding interactions with Partey, effectively dismissing claims that England stars would be told not to acknowledge the Ghanaian international before or after the match.
The development comes ahead of the highly anticipated Group L encounter between Ghana and England, scheduled for June 23 at Gillette Stadium.
Partey missed Ghana’s opening World Cup fixture but has since rejoined the Black Stars camp and is expected to be available for selection against the Three Lions.
The experienced midfielder remains a key figure in Carlos Queiroz’s squad as Ghana seek a positive result against England in their quest to reach the knockout stages.
With the FA reportedly taking a neutral stance on the matter, attention is now expected to shift fully to the action on the pitch as both nations prepare for one of the standout fixtures of the group stage.
