Thomas Partey makes a return to the squad
A Member of the Black Stars Management Committee, Dr Richard Nsenkyire, beleives Thomas Partey is motivated to play despite his alleged rape allegation charges.
The 32-year-old is currently facing legal proceedings in the United Kingdom over allegations of rape and sexual assault.
In light of this, many expected Partey to be left out of the squad for the double-header against Chad and Mali in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Despite these legal issues, Otto Addo has named the former Arsenal midfielder in his 24-man squad for the games scheduled for next month.
However, Dr Nsenkyire insists that the Villarreal midfielder is motivated to play for Ghana.
“Otto Addo is in touch with all the players, and I believe if Thomas Partey was not ready to play, he would have informed the head coach and the technical team, but I believe that he is ready and motivated to play against Chad and Mali,” he told Asempa FM.
Partey appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, August 5, charged with five counts of rape involving two women and one count of sexual assault against a third. The alleged incidents reportedly occurred between 2021 and 2022, during his time at Arsenal.
The charges came just four days after Partey left the North London club at the end of June, following the expiry of his contract. Partey’s next court appearance is scheduled for September 2.
Ghana will begin their September fixtures away to Chad at the Stade Olympique Maréchal Idriss Déby Itno on Thursday, September 4, before hosting Mali at the Accra Sports Stadium on Monday, September 8.
The Black Stars currently lead Group I with 15 points after six matches, three points ahead of Comoros and five clear of Madagascar, as they push for a fifth FIFA World Cup appearance.
Meanwhile, the team is expected to open camp in Accra on Monday, September 1.
