The wait is over for Ghana's Thomas Partey as he's finally cleared to face England in their World Cup showdown in Boston – a boost for the Black Stars ahead of Tuesday's crunch clash. The 33-year-old midfielder, who had a stint with Arsenal, was initially denied entry into Canada due to his ongoing rape and sexual assault case back home.
Partey, now plying his trade at Villarreal, has pleaded not guilty to seven counts of rape and one charge of sexual assault – allegations made by four women between 2020 and 2022. His Canadian visa woes were sparked after officials claimed he had no previous arrests or charges, a claim that didn't quite add up. With the reality of his situation now clear, Partey's inclusion in the squad is music to Ghana's ears.
In a defiant statement ahead of the England showdown, Partey said: "It's part of football – things happen outside the pitch you can't control. For me, I feel good and ready to play." His presence on the pitch will surely be a shot in the arm for his teammates as they take on a formidable opponent like England.
US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) confirmed that Partey's pending court case won't affect his entry into the States – yet. With a visa now in hand, he's free to join his team-mates and take on Gareth Southgate's men. The CBP's clarification highlights the fine line between immigration policies north and south of the border.