Reece James is a fitness headache for England manager Thomas Tuchel ahead of the final group game against Panama. The Chelsea right-back has started both of England’s games so far in America, playing the full 90 minutes against Croatia and Ghana on 18 and 22 June.
What happened?
Reece James has a history of injuries, but featured regularly for the Blues last season, making 39 appearances in all competitions. However, a hamstring problem struck in March and kept him out for the entirety of April.
The Daily Mail reports that there is now concern over James’ hamstring again, and he is being monitored following the goalless draw with Ghana on Tuesday. England need to win against Panama on Saturday to guarantee that they top the group, but James may well be rested for the contest in New Jersey.
Why it matters for Reece James
If James is out for any longer than the next game, there will be concern as England’s replacements are not necessarily that convincing. Tino Livramento was forced to leave the squad due to injury ahead of the opening game against Croatia, replaced by centre-back Trevoh Chalobah.
That leaves Tottenham’s Djed Spence and Bayer Leverkusen’s Jarell Quansah as the possible stand-ins for James if he is not available. Spence started at left-back against Ghana and came on against Croatia, while Quansah is yet to feature at the World Cup.
What comes next?
Tuchel also has the fitness of Declan Rice to worry about, with the midfielder seen limping after the draw with Ghana. The Arsenal star was already managing hamstring pain, but was also spotted with strapping around his calf on Tuesday night.
Reece James had moved to dismiss fitness fears ahead of the Ghana game, telling the BBC: 'I’ve been fit for a long time before my last injury, and I don’t listen to too much noise.' Tuchel explained calling up Chalobah instead of a full-back to replace Livramento, saying: 'We called Trevoh Chalobah because it frees up Jarrell Quansah to play full-back on both sides, and Djed Spence can play full-back on both sides, so it gives us full coverage in defence.',
Tuchel's decision will be crucial in the upcoming match against Panama, as England aims to top the group. The final group game is scheduled to take place on Saturday, and James' availability will be a key factor in determining the team's strategy.
The England squad is preparing for the match, and James' injury is a significant concern. The team's performance in the World Cup so far has been promising, but the injury to James could impact their chances of advancing to the next round.
The match against Panama will be a crucial test for England, and James' availability will be closely watched. If he is unable to play, Spence or Quansah will need to step up and fill the gap. The team's fate in the World Cup hangs in the balance, and the next match will be a decisive one.