Thomas Tuchel has confirmed that England defender Jarell Quansah suffered a twisted ankle during the 2-0 victory over Panama on Saturday, casting further doubt on the team's right-back options ahead of their World Cup last 32 clash on Wednesday.
Quansah injured in group stage finale
Quansah, who plays for Bayer Leverkusen, started the final Group L match after Reece James was ruled out with a hamstring injury. The Chelsea captain is also a major doubt for the knockout stage. Quansah's game ended prematurely in the 64th minute after a challenge from Panama's Jose Luis Rodriguez. England secured a 2-0 win to top the group.
Speaking in his post-match press conference, Tuchel said: 'Classic ankle twist. He is in pain. He said he had it before and it is a matter of days. He has his leg up high and in ice.'
Growing right-back crisis
The injury adds to England's mounting problems at right-back. Tino Livramento was ruled out before the tournament began, and James remains a doubt. Djed Spence is available but has also been used as cover at left-back. Ezri Konsa can play the role but has been deployed exclusively at centre-half by Tuchel, while Trevoh Chalobah was called up to replace Livramento.
Tuchel acknowledged the situation: 'Naturally of course we have another injury in the position. It will be a tight race for Reece James and a tight race for Jarell Quansah but it is our job to find solutions and we will do.'
What's next for England
England will face either Senegal or DR Congo in the last 32 on Wednesday. Quansah's availability remains uncertain, with Tuchel monitoring his recovery. The manager will need to find a solution at right-back to keep England's World Cup campaign on track.
