
Former England captain John Terry has weighed in on the growing controversy surrounding Thomas Partey and the pre-match handshake, as Ghana and England prepare to face off in a crucial World Cup Group L encounter.Partey, who missed Ghana’s opening game against Panama after being denied entry into Canada, is expected to feature against England on Tuesday. The midfielder is currently facing serious charges of rape and sexual assault in the UK, which has cast a shadow over his participation in the tournament.The English Football Association has decided not to issue any guidance to players, leaving it up to each individual to decide whether they will participate in the traditional pre-match handshake.John Terry confirmed he would shake Thomas Partey’s hand during a media appearance on Piers Morgan Uncensored along with Simon Jordan. The discussion emerged right before the June 23, 2026 World Cup match between England and Ghana.Reports revealed that the English FA is leaving the decision to individual players on whether or not to partake in the customary pre-match handshake with Thomas Partey due to his upcoming criminal trial.Terry, who was involved in a similar controversy in 2010 when he refused to shake Wayne Bridge’s hand following a personal dispute, offered his perspective on the situation. Reports indicate that Terry believes England players should focus on the football and not be distracted by off-field matters.England and Ghana both sit on three points after their opening games, with the winner set to take control of Group L. Kickoff at Boston Stadium is 4:00 PM ET on Tuesday.
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