Thomas Partey avoids answering if Djed Spence snubbed handshake in England's match against Ghana

Thomas Partey appeared to avoid answering whether England's Djed Spence snubbed shaking his hand before the Three Lions' match against Ghana.

The former Arsenal midfielder walked past numerous reporters in the mixed zone at Boston Stadium after the game.

When asked about Spence appearing to avoid shaking his hand, Partey appeared to ignore the question, engaging with another reporter discussing a separate matter.

Television coverage before the game moved away from the traditional pre-match greetings as Partey made his way along the England line-up.

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However, footage shared on social media and widely circulated online appeared to show Tottenham defender Spence pulling his hand away as the Ghana international approached.

The clip quickly generated discussion among supporters, although it remains unclear whether Spence intentionally avoided making contact.

England's other players seemingly acknowledged Partey either with a handshake or a fist bump before kick-off.

The atmosphere inside the stadium became increasingly hostile towards the 33-year-old during the match itself.

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Sections of England supporters jeered when Partey's name was announced before kick-off, and boos could be heard each time he touched the ball.

Partey's performance contributed to a frustrating evening for the Three Lions, as they drew 0-0 with Ghana in a match that lacked inspiration.

Thomas Tuchel rejected any suggestions that his side was frustrated after failing to find a way past Ghana.

He told the BBC: "No, not frustrated. I saw it coming. I knew it would be a difficult game.

"I hardly saw a team defend so physically and so committed like Ghana did, so give credit to them.

"It was difficult to break them down; we needed to be patient, to be precise, to commit and be brave, but you can never for one second open spaces for counter-attacks.

"We conceded only two, and they were very dangerous, so we were very aware of that.

"I think at the end of the halves we grew into it, we were pushing and pushing, I liked the attitude, we needed a bit of luck, we had enough shots, we had enough crosses, we had enough set-pieces to score the first goal, we had a chance with Harry, and it is what it is."

The former Chelsea boss appeared calm at full-time, feeling his side did enough to pick up all three points.

Tuchel continued: "Of course, it's very difficult because if he drops short, they take care of it with the six. It was basically 10 against eight because they left our centre-backs more or less alone and the spaces around Harry were very tight, so yeah, a tough battle, but it's no concern now.

"He had one chance that he normally never misses, and he missed it today. It is what it is.

"It will not be the first match like this. Respect also for our group and the difficulty of our group.

"Even the third match against Panama, even if it's maybe not the most well-known name, they were very good against Ghana and it will be tough."

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