Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey says he is “ready to play” for Tuesday’s match against England after missing his side’s World Cup opening game, a return that has intensified attention on his involvement in the tournament.
Why Partey missed Ghana’s opener
Partey was not able to travel to Canada for Ghana’s 1-0 win over Panama in Toronto because his visa application was rejected. With the tournament already underway, that absence meant he sat out the Group stage opener.
He has since linked up with the squad ahead of Ghana’s Group L meeting with England in Boston.
Return to training and message to reporters
Speaking on Monday at Ghana’s training base in Providence, Rhode Island, Partey said he had moved past the setback and was now fully focused on helping the team.
“I think for me now it’s part of football,” Partey said. “Things happen outside football that you cannot control but for me now I feel OK and I am ready to play.”
Looking ahead to England and familiar faces
The 33-year-old also indicated he is looking forward to taking on opponents he has encountered before during his time in London, including England internationals Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka.
“I’m really happy to see them again,” he said. “I hope they are going to bring their best and try to give ourselves also the opportunity to play against the best and try to compete and enjoy the game.”
Midfield duel with Rice
Partey welcomed the prospect of a direct contest in midfield with Rice, while acknowledging the challenge.
- He said he expects it “not going to be easy” against a side featuring “very good players.”
- Partey added that he is “happy to play against them.”
Legal backdrop and England’s media stance
- Partey is dealing with seven charges of rape and two charges of sexual assault in Britain.
- He has denied the allegations.
- The Football Association has said England players will not respond to questions about Partey.
