Reece James is a major doubt for England’s World Cup Round of 16 clash against Mexico as another update spells bad news
Reece James is expected to miss England’s final training session ahead of their World Cup Round of 16 showdown against co-hosts Mexico, with the Chelsea star a serious doubt for the clash at the Azteca Stadium.
The right-back has been sidelined since the 0-0 draw with Ghana in Boston owing to a hamstring strain. Thomas Tuchel had expressed optimism that James might be able to prove his fitness in time to face Mexico – but that prospect now appears increasingly unlikely.
The Times report that James is not yet fit enough to rejoin his team-mates, with the Mexico fixture now barely 24 hours away. Whether Tuchel will opt to take a gamble on James’ fitness, given the sheer magnitude of a match that puts England firmly in do-or-die territory, remains to be seen.
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There is hope, however, that Jarell Quansah will return to training with the group after rolling his ankle against Panama in New Jersey – news that would represent a significant boost for Tuchel.
Quansah had stepped in for the injured James at right-back before picking up his own knock and limping off. Both players were absent from the 2-1 Round of 32 victory over DR Congo in Atlanta.
Djed Spence deputised at right-back on Wednesday, with Declan Rice subsequently filling in after the Tottenham man was withdrawn by Tuchel with England behind.
James’ Chelsea team-mate, Trevoh Chalobah, came into the squad to offer some defensive support when former Blue Tino Livramento was forced out of the squad due to injury. Tuchel opted to go for a central defensive option rather than another full-back.
The German coach was forced to defend his decision following the injury to James. “No-one could see that coming,” he said.
“Reece was in good shape and felt very good, so it’s a bit unlucky but Ezri Konsa played in the position for us on a high level. We have still no problem.”
Tuchel’s decision to not select Real Madrid star Trent Alexander-Arnold has proven controversial.
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