Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey has declared himself mentally focused and fully prepared ahead of the Black Stars' crucial World Cup match against England.
The 33-year-old Villarreal midfielder was forced to miss Ghana’s Group L tournament opener against Panama in Toronto.
His absence followed a decision by immigration authorities to deny his Canadian visa application due to ongoing legal proceedings in the United Kingdom, which a Federal Court in Ottawa subsequently upheld.
Despite missing the opening match, which Ghana went on to win 1-0, the midfielder remained stationed at the team's training base camp in Boston.
Because his entry clearance was fully approved by the United States government, he has rejoined full first-team training sessions.
Addressing the off-field distractions and his enforced absence from the squad, Partey kept his focus locked entirely on his athletic duties.
"Things happen outside of football you cannot control," Partey stated, reflecting on his legal and logistical challenges. "I feel okay and I’m ready to play [against England]."
Ghana is scheduled to face the Three Lions on June 23 in Boston. Head coach Carlos Queiroz remains heavily reliant on the veteran player, previously defending his inclusion by noting that the team would let the truth find its way.
Team officials have confirmed that Partey faces no sporting or federal restrictions within the United States, leaving him fully eligible for selection.
Send your news stories to [email protected] and via WhatsApp on +233 546310076.
Read Full Story
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
Instagram
Google+
YouTube
LinkedIn
RSS