Reece James has emerged as a fitness concern for England manager Thomas Tuchel ahead of the final World Cup group game against Panama on Saturday. The Chelsea right-back, who started both of England's matches so far, is being monitored for a hamstring issue following the goalless draw with Ghana on Tuesday.
James' injury history and recent form
The 26-year-old has a history of injuries but played regularly for Chelsea last season, making 39 appearances in all competitions. However, a hamstring problem in March kept him out for the entirety of April. James had dismissed fitness fears before 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.'
England need a win against Panama to guarantee top spot in the group, but James may be rested for the contest in New Jersey. The Daily Mail reports that there is concern over his hamstring again, and he is being closely monitored.
Backup options for Tuchel
If James is unavailable, England's replacement options are limited. Tino Livramento was forced to leave the squad due to injury before the opening game against Croatia and was replaced by centre-back Trevoh Chalobah. That leaves Tottenham's Djed Spence and Bayer Leverkusen's Jarell Quansah as possible stand-ins. Spence started at left-back against Ghana and came on against Croatia, while Quansah has yet to feature at the World Cup.
Explaining the decision to call up Chalobah instead of a full-back, Tuchel said: '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.'
Declan Rice also a fitness worry
Tuchel also has concerns over Declan Rice, who was seen limping after the draw with Ghana. The Arsenal midfielder was already managing hamstring pain and was spotted with strapping around his calf on Tuesday night.
