Reece James ruled out of England’s World Cup Panama match with thigh issue | OneFootball

Reece James will miss England’s World Cup game against Panama due to a thigh problem, and is out for several days, according to L'Équipe.

Speaking at MetLife Stadium on Friday, head coach Thomas Tuchel said the right-back has a minor hamstring issue, has not trained for two days, and is on an accelerated rehabilitation plan. He will be monitored match by match, and the staff are convinced he will play again during the tournament.

England must beat Panama on Saturday at 23:00 to secure first place in Group L and avoid the possibility of facing Portugal in the round of 32.

Tuchel has called up Trevor Chalobah to free Jarell Quansah for right-back. He considers Quansah solid in that role with Liverpool, and the defender has also featured in a back three. Djed Spence and Ezri Konsa are further options.

The manager appeared irritated by the topic, having omitted Trent Alexander-Arnold and amid debate over not calling the Real Madrid full-back. He stressed the squad was his choice and that he is satisfied with the players’ profiles.

In midfield, Elliot Anderson and Declan Rice trained as normal after minor issues in the 0-0 draw with Ghana, and everyone except James is ready.

Source: L'Équipe