US-Based Journalist Kevin Taylor Slams Djed Spence After Thomas Partey Handshake Snub
- England's Djed Spence drew criticism from US-based Ghanaian journalist, Kevin Taylor, over his snub of Thomas Partey's handshake in the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup
- The outspoken media personality criticised the player, questioning what he sought to prove by sidelining the midfielder during the England vs Ghana match in Boston
- With backlash pouring in against Djed Spence, Taylor's remark has triggered widespread reactions on social media, with many sharing their opinions on the incident
US-based Ghanaian journalist Kevin Taylor has blasted England player Djed Spence over his recent handshake snub against Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey.
Source: Facebook
Building up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup showdown, a discussion emerged that the England Football Association were considering not shaking hands due to Partey's legal battle in court.
This triggered reactions on the internet, with many waiting to see if the team would sideline the midfielder as reported.
On June 23, 2026, the much-anticipated game between the two teams came off in Boston.
However, Djed Spence found himself at the centre of controversy after appearing to avoid Thomas Partey's handshake during the pre-match line-up ahead of the Black Stars' 2026 FIFA World Cup clash, despite his teammates doing him the honour.
The incident quickly gained traction on social media, with many supporters interpreting the gesture as a sign of disrespect towards the Black Stars midfielder.
Some Ghanaians also flooded the England defender's Instagram and TikTok accounts, expressing their disappointment.
The X video below shows Djed Spence snubbing a handshake with Thomas Partey:
Kevin Taylor blasts Spence over Partey snub
In a video shared on social media, Kevin Taylor broke his silence on the heated debate surrounding Djed Spence.
The Ghanaian journalist did not hold back as he heavily criticised the England defender over the incident, using harsh and insulting language to express his displeasure at what he described as a disrespectful act on the pitch.
According to Kevin Taylor, Spence’s behaviour was unnecessary, especially when he hadn't been proven guilty by the court.
The outspoken journalist questioned what the English defender was trying to prove by refusing the handshake.
Kevin Taylor's outburst has triggered widespread reactions on social media, adding another layer to the already heated debate.
The TikTok video of Kevin Taylor lashing out at Djed Spence is below.
Kevin Taylor's Djed Spence outburst sparks reactions
YEN.com.gh compiled social media comments after Kevin Taylor criticised Djed Spence.
Sophvan wrote:
"He only wanted to be popular, forgive him."
Morgan wrote:
"I am sure he did that for fame, but it rather went against him."
Nana Fraiku wrote:
"It's exactly like what South Africans are doing. A black man, thinking he is in the bathroom of his oppressor, will be later referred to as an African."
Boss Chick wrote:
"Even if found guilty or not, we are all human, and we commit sin in one way or another."
Source: Getty Images
Spence posts cryptic message after Partey incident
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that Djed Spence broke his silence on Instagram with a cryptic post after snubbing Thomas Partey’s handshake.
Amid backlash, especially from Ghanaian fans, he later shared another post featuring the word 'BELIEVE' alongside a carousel of matchday pics.
Proofreading by Bruce Douglas, copy editor at YEN.com.gh.
Source: YEN.com.gh
