Villarreal president Fernando Roig has called on supporters to reserve judgment on new signing Thomas Partey while the Ghanaian midfielder’s legal proceedings in London continue.

Partey, who joined the Yellow Submarine from Arsenal this summer, is currently on bail over sexual assault charges. Roig, speaking after Villarreal’s 2-0 preseason loss to Aston Villa, denied reports of boos from home fans.

“The English whistled Partey. Not the Villarreal fans,” he said. “I wouldn’t like our own fans to whistle at players on our team. We must stand with the team. He is not a convicted player.”

Roig stressed that all club players deserve backing on the pitch until justice has run its course.

“We must be cautious and wait for justice. Let’s not judge prematurely. Thomas has the right to do his job until there is a conviction,” he added.

Partey’s high-profile arrival is expected to strengthen Villarreal’s midfield for the upcoming campaign.