Footage circulating on social media has sparked debate after appearing to show England defender Djed Spence declining to shake hands with Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey before their FIFA World Cup Group L clash in Boston.
The incident drew widespread reactions online, although the Football Association is reported not to have discussed any pre-match handshake arrangements with players ahead of the encounter. Partey, making his first appearance for Ghana at the tournament, was met with boos from sections of the crowd when his name was announced over the public address system before kick-off.
The Ghana international had missed the Black Stars’ opening 1-0 victory over Panama after being denied entry into Canada. Throughout the match against England, some supporters continued to jeer the midfielder whenever he was in possession of the ball, amid ongoing legal proceedings in which Partey has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges and is scheduled to stand trial next year.
