Ian Wright has backed Djed Spence to start at right-back for England in their final World Cup group game against Panama, following a hamstring injury to Reece James. The former Arsenal striker also urged manager Thomas Tuchel to bring Bukayo Saka into the starting lineup to boost England's attacking threat down the right flank.
James injury leaves England short at right-back
England are set to be without Reece James for Saturday's match in New York and the round of 32 tie next week after he suffered a hamstring injury. The squad is already low on natural right-back cover, with Tino Livramento ruled out of the tournament last week due to injury. Trevoh Chalobah, called up as Livramento's replacement, can play in that role, as can Ezri Konsa and Jarell Quansah, but Spence appears the most likely option.
Spence impressed against Ghana
Thomas Tuchel started the versatile full-back at left-back in England's midweek match against Ghana, ahead of Nico O'Reilly. Wright believes Spence is the best candidate to replace James. 'Reece has had those problems with injuries, Thomas knows him and thought he might be able to make it and unfortunately he hasn't,' Wright told ITV. 'But I think with Djed Spence there and bringing Saka in now, he's had some rest, you've got to think a bit more from the attacking point of view and what we are capable of.'
Saka in contention after injury layoff
Bukayo Saka has been dealing with an Achilles injury that caused him to miss five games for Arsenal in April. He was left out of the starting XI against Croatia and Ghana, with club teammate Noni Madueke starting instead. Wright hopes Saka will start against Panama, alongside Marcus Rashford on the left, as Anthony Gordon has had little impact so far. 'We're going to miss his set piece delivery but I think we've got some cover for that,' Wright added.
