Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has defended his decision to include Thomas Partey in Ghana’s squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup despite the midfielder facing rape and sexual assault charges in England.
Partey has been charged with seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault involving allegations made by four different women. The former Arsenal midfielder has pleaded not guilty to all charges and continues to maintain his innocence.
Speaking to the media on Monday ahead of Ghana’s international friendly against Wales at the Cardiff City Stadium, Queiroz said his stance was based on the legal principle that every accused person is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
“It’s a simple and straightforward answer. As far as I know, in England, Portugal, and everywhere else, the presumption of innocence is afforded to the accused until a court reaches a decision,” he said.
“Unfortunately, in today’s society and on social media, people are often judged and condemned before they even have the opportunity to defend themselves.
“Let’s allow the process to take its natural course. One day, when the river meets the ocean, we are going to find the truth,” the 73-year-old added.
Partey is set to feature at his second FIFA World Cup after representing Ghana at the 2022 tournament in Qatar.
His selection has become one of the most talked-about decisions in Queiroz’s squad announcement as the Black Stars continue preparations for the tournament in North America.
Ghana, who will be making their fifth appearance at the World Cup, have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama.
The Black Stars will begin their campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field before taking on England on June 23 at Gillette Stadium. They will wrap up their group-stage fixtures against Croatia on June 27.
Ghana will be hoping to advance beyond the group stage for the first time since their historic run to the quarter-finals at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
