Djed Spence Handshake Moment With Thomas Partey Draws Scrutiny Amid Ongoing Legal Case
Sports Updated: 24 June 2026 19:10 EAT
Photo Courtesy : Djed Spence appears to reject handshake with Thomas Teye Partey during the World Cup clas between England and Ghana
Djed Spence, England defender, was seen appearing to skip a pre-match handshake with Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey during a FIFA World Cup fixture, a moment confirmed through broadcast footage and widely reported by international media. The incident occurred during the standard pre-match line-up where players exchange greetings.
Video footage shows Spence walking past Partey without completing the handshake, while the rest of the England squad engaged in the routine as expected. Reports indicate he was the only England player who did not participate in the greeting with the Ghana midfielder.
The moment quickly spread across social media platforms, with clips prompting widespread debate over whether the action was intentional or coincidental. No official explanation has been provided by Spence or the England team regarding the incident.
Thomas Partey is currently facing ongoing criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom involving serious charges, which he denies. The case has attracted significant public and media attention, with legal processes still underway and no conviction recorded.
Court reporting indicates Partey has pleaded not guilty and is awaiting trial, with proceedings expected to continue next year. He remains available for selection and has featured in international fixtures despite the ongoing case.
There is no verified evidence that the England Football Association or coaching staff issued any directive instructing players to avoid handshakes with Partey. Officials have not publicly commented on any internal guidance related to the pre-match interaction.
England head coach Thomas Tuchel declined to directly address the handshake incident in post-match interviews, with attention instead focused on the match result and tournament progress. No disciplinary measures have been announced in relation to Spence’s conduct.
Ghana’s coaching staff acknowledged the pre-match greeting sequence but emphasized maintaining focus on football matters rather than external controversies. They did not indicate any complaint or formal protest regarding the incident.
Match coverage confirms that all other players from both teams completed the customary handshake routine without disruption. The pre-match ceremony proceeded as normal aside from the isolated moment involving Spence and Partey.
Stadium reports noted heightened crowd reactions during parts of the match involving Partey, reflecting broader public attention surrounding the player. However, officials did not report any breach of match protocol.
The fixture concluded without disciplinary incidents, and both teams continued with normal post-match procedures. No on-field confrontation or escalation was recorded following the handshake sequence.
Thomas Partey on Djed Spence not shaking his hand:
“I don’t really know the reason, and honestly, that’s something only he can answer. I don’t want to give it too much attention because football is about respect and focusing on the game.
If there’s anything behind it, hopefully he reflects on it himself and understands why he made that decision. As for me, I’m completely fine. I have no issues with anyone and I wish him all the best.
I stay focused on my football, my family, and my faith. I serve the living God, and that gives me peace regardless of what happens around me.”
Patrick Evra:
“People are praising Djed Spence for refusing to shake Thomas Partey’s hand, but I think it’s gutter behavior. If you have a problem with someone, handle it privately instead of putting on a show for social media.”
“As a Black man, I find it disappointing. And let’s be honest, Spence can never reach Partey’s level in football. Partey has already achieved things most players only dream of.”
Tags: 2022 World Cup Editors choice FIFA World Cup 2026 France France National Team Ghana Fc Signs Signs Media Kenya Limited Signsmedia Signstv Signstvkenya Uk France World Cup World Cup 2026
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FELIX MAKONA
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