Thomas Partey has been named on Villarreal's bench for the clash against Tottenham Hotspur - just hours before he is due in court.
The former Arsenal midfielder is due to appear at Southwark Crown Court on Wednesday for a plea hearing on charges of rape and sexual assault.
Partey is playing in north London against Spurs
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Partey is playing in north London against SpursCredit: Getty
The Ghana international has been charged with five counts of rape against two women and one charge of sexual assault against a third.
The offences are alleged to have taken place while he was an Arsenal player between 2021 and 2022.
The midfielder denies all charges, and his lawyer has said he, 'Welcomes the chance to finally clear his name.'
He has been granted conditional bail, and the LaLiga side have him amongst their substitutes for their Champions League clash in north London on Tuesday night.
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Partey left Arsenal earlier this summer upon the expiration of his contract on June 30.
The midfielder was then charged on July 4 by the Crown Prosecution Service.
A month later, he signed for Villarreal and has made four appearances for the LaLiga side, but just one start.
Ahead of the game, Villarreal's manager Marcelino indicated Partey would be available to play.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, he said: "I am totally convinced that he is mentally prepared and technically prepared to play tomorrow night.
"For sure, he will be ready. We are very happy Thomas is with us for his football capacity, football ability and his presence as a human.
"He is a great player with a lot of experience. He has played for a lot of top clubs. We know he has a great level.
"I think he will get back to a top level. I am very happy he is with us in the team."
Partey's manager believes that his player will be in the right frame of mind
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Partey's manager believes that his player will be in the right frame of mindCredit: Getty
Marcelino was then quizzed on a potentially hostile environment at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
To which he stated: "We're interpreting stuff about and talking about a player that could be totally innocent.
"We're playing a game of football tomorrow where the important thing is football. This is where football was invented after all. Do you understand me? Thank you."
What have Villarreal said?
When the club signed Partey, they acknowledged the situation.
They said: "The club is aware that the player is currently involved in legal proceedings in England.
"The player firmly maintains his innocence and denies all charges against him.
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Partey is due to return to court on Wednesday
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Partey is due to return to court on WednesdayCredit: Getty
"The club respects the fundamental principle of the presumption of innocence and will await the outcome of the judicial process, which will be responsible for clarifying the facts of the case.
"Due to the law in England in relation to the ongoing proceedings the club is unable to comment further."