Former Ghana international, Yaw Preko, has called for support for Thomas Partey ahead of Black Stars' 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Despite facing a legal case over allegations of rape charges, the Villarreal midfielder has been included in Otto Addo's squad for the Matchday 7 and 8 games of the qualifiers against Chad and Mali scheduled for next month.
After being named in the 24-man squad, Preko has called Ghanaians and the playing body to support the 32-year-old ahead of the games.
"Thomas Partey needs the support of the entire country," he told Asempa FM.
"I know he is a strong person, but for now, he is innocent until proven guilty.
"We must support him, and we must not make him feel that he is not being used, and afterwards, he will not have the backing of the team and the country.
"Partey is a key player for the Black Stars and in times like this, we need to back him," he added.
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.
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. The team is expected to open camp in Accra on Monday, September 1.
Send your news stories to [email protected] and via WhatsApp on +233 546310076.
Read Full Story
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
Instagram
Google+
YouTube
LinkedIn
RSS