FIFA 'unhappy' with Djed Spence for snubbing Thomas Partey as England-Ghana footage analysed - ex-refs chief

FIFA have been tipped to take action against England star Djed Spence for his deliberate snub of Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey in Tuesday's World Cup clash.

That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official Keith Hackett, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the controversy before the 0-0 draw as Boston Stadium hosted the Three Lions and Carlos Queiroz's team in the World Cup group-stage fixture on 23 June.

The 25-year-old Tottenham Hotspur star, who started at left-back for Thomas Tuchel's team, made his feelings known about the former Arsenal midfielder, who is scheduled to go on trial in 2027 after being charged with five counts of rape and one of sexual assault.

Spence appeared to refuse to shake Partey's hand before kickoff, with footage widely shared on social media, and FIFA are now expected to demand some clarification from the England management.

The Three Lions beat Croatia 4-2 on 17 June, with Nico O'Riley starting at left-back, but Tuchel opted for the Spurs defender in the position against the Black Stars.

After a gruelling 90 minutes against a team playing a low block, it was another World Cup draw for England as the game ended 0-0.

Former FIFA referee Keith Hackett expects the football governing body's disciplinary committee to scrutinise Spence's actions at Boston Stadium.

The ex-PGMOL official wouldn't be surprised to see officials being unhappy as the story continues to gain attention.

With the left-back a key part of Tuchel's plan at the 2026 World Cup, it remains to be seen whether any action will be taken against him in hindsight.

Speaking to Football Insider, Hackett said, "I am sure that FIFA will be unhappy that Spence appeared to refuse to shake Partey's hand at the pre-match customary handshake ceremony.

"FIFA, through their disciplinary committee, will have picked this up and will seek clarification from the England management team.

"I would suggest that is a clear conscious decision made by the England player."

England are still top of Group L on goal difference despite their draw against Ghana and face Panama before the knockout stages.

In the round of 32, the Three Lions could face one of the best third-placed teams from Groups E, H, I, J, or K, with Ecuador, Cabo Verde, Algeria and DR Congo among their possible opponents.

After a frustrating afternoon against Ghana, England fans will surely be demanding better team selection from Tuchel to ensure they have the best of proceeding to the later stages of the competition.