Thomas Partey Denies New Rape Allegations

Ex-Arsenal footballer Thomas Partey has entered not guilty pleas to two fresh allegations of rape. The 32-year-old midfielder appeared before Southwark Crown Court on Monday, denying the rape of a woman in London in December 2020. Partey was previously charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault in July last year, to which he also pleaded not guilty. A trial was initially set for November this year, but with the addition of two new rape charges announced in February, the trial date may now be pushed back to January next year. In total, Partey has pleaded not guilty to seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, all related to allegations from four different women. During the hearing, Partey, dressed in dark grey trousers, a black jumper, and smart black shoes, confirmed his name and entered the not guilty pleas. He was granted bail with the condition that he does not contact the alleged victims. Partey, a key player for the Ghana national side, is expected to face England in the World Cup this summer. His case is scheduled for a pre-trial hearing on May 14, at which point a decision will be made on the exact trial date.