The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has downplayed reports emerging from England suggesting that some English players could refuse to shake hands with Thomas Partey ahead of Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup clash against the Three Lions.

GFA Communications Director Henry Asante Twum believes discussions in parts of the English media aim to create distractions within the Black Stars camp ahead of the highly anticipated Group L encounter.

“The English media are using this as mind games to unsettle the team, but we have confidence in our player and remain focused on our objectives,” Asante Twum said.

His remarks follow reports that England’s Football Association may reconsider its position on customary pre-match handshakes involving the Ghana midfielder, who is scheduled to stand trial in the United Kingdom over allegations he denies.

The issue has attracted considerable attention in the lead-up to the World Cup showdown between Ghana and England, scheduled for June 23 at Gillette Stadium.

Despite the off-field discussions, the Black Stars insist their attention remains firmly on football as they continue preparations for the tournament.

Ghana will begin its Group L campaign against Panama on June 17, then face England, before concluding the group stage against Croatia.