World Cup: England Make Decision on Shaking Hands With Thomas Partey v Ghana

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England have made their decision on shaking hands with Thomas Partey ahead of their World Cup clash against Ghana on Tuesday.

The Three Lions got their World Cup campaign underway in some style on Wednesday as they beat Croatia. Harry Kane (2), Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford were all on the scoresheet as England won 4-2.

Ghana were also triumphant in their first match as they beat Panama 1-0. Caleb Yirenkyi scored what could be a crucial winner in the 95th minute.

The Black Stars were able to emerge victorious despite being without star player and vice-captain Partey. The 33-year-old was denied entry into Canada as he faces trial over rape and sexual assault. It was later revealed that he had not declared any outstanding charges when applying for a visa.

Despite not being allowed entry into Canada, Partey has been granted his visa by the United States. That means he will be available to face England in Ghana's second group match at Boston Stadium on Tuesday.

Ahead of the tournament, it was revealed that England may decide not to shake hands with Partey, who now plays for Spanish side Villarreal, before their game.

Pre-match handshakes between opposing players are customary before top-level matches, including World Cup fixtures.

However, it was reported that the FA were considering England's position on whether they agree to shake Partey's hand or not.

According to the Telegraph, the FA has 'has no fixed position on Partey or his involvement against England' and are 'not expected to issue players with any guidance over shaking hands.'

It is therefore expected that England players will shake Partey's hand ahead of the match. Several of Partey's former Arsenal teammates play for the Three Lions, including Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka.

Ghana were criticised for their decision to call up Partey to their 26-man squad for the World Cup. Former Manchester United assistant Carlos Queiroz, who now manages Ghana, defended his inclusion.

He said: “It’s a simple and basic answer. As far as I know, in England, in Portugal, whatever, until the court makes a decision, that the presumption of innocence is on the side of all court cases.

“But today, and this is not only about Thomas, very unfortunately the way the social media and the media sometimes act with full and total impunity, we are condemned even before we have the opportunity to defend. So let the events run this normal course. Let the river flow and one day when the river meets the ocean, we’re going to find the truth.”

After facing England, Ghana conclude their group stage campaign against Croatia on June 27. England face Panama on the same day.