Reece James has offered a surprise injury update after England's dramatic 2-1 win over DR Congo, suggesting he could return earlier than expected for the World Cup last 16 clash against Mexico. The Chelsea right-back, who has been sidelined with a hamstring strain since the group stage match against Ghana, told The Athletic's David Ornstein: 'It's ok; I'm feeling good.'
England's late rescue act against DR Congo
England booked their place in the next round after a late comeback against DR Congo. Brian Kibambe Cipenga's early goal put the Three Lions on the brink of an ignominious exit, but Harry Kane scored a superb brace in the final 15 minutes to secure victory and enhance his hopes of a second World Cup Golden Boot.
Tuchel's injury woes
Thomas Tuchel has been hampered by fitness concerns throughout the tournament, unable to field a settled starting XI. Bukayo Saka has started only one of England's four matches, while Declan Rice was rested against Panama and seen clutching an ice pack to his hamstring after the DR Congo game. James's injury had raised fears he might miss a potential quarter-final, but his latest comments suggest a quicker recovery.
Tuchel has used five different right-backs in four games, with Djed Spence struggling to convince and Jarell Quansah failing to stake a claim. Rice and John Stones have also filled in at right-back during the closing stages against DR Congo.
Kane's heroics praised by Gordon
Anthony Gordon praised Kane after the captain's match-winning performance. 'As soon as he hit the second goal, I knew it was going in,' Gordon said. 'It's more the consistency that he surprised me with. Anyone can score a good goal, but he does it every day in training, every game. He is phenomenal. It's amazing to be around him because he's at the very top of football, having a season only beaten by Lionel Messi.'
