Reece James ruled out due to hamstring injury
Reece James has been ruled out with a hamstring injury and will miss at least the next two World Cup games for England, reports BritPanorama.
The Chelsea full-back has a history of problems with his hamstring and did not train with the squad in Kansas City on Friday before their trip to New York.
James will miss out against Panama and England’s first knockout tie. He becomes the second name to pick up an injury during the England camp, with Tino Livramento ruled out of the squad entirely before the World Cup began with a calf injury.
Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel has several alternatives available in James’ absence. Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarell Quansah could fill in at right-back, while Djed Spence may also be considered after his impressive performances for Tottenham last season. Nico O’Reilly, who struck the crossbar after coming off the bench against Ghana, is another option if Tuchel decides to reshuffle his defensive line.
Declan Rice has returned to England training after concerns arose regarding a possible injury sustained during the Ghana match. The Arsenal midfielder appeared with strapping on his left calf and is believed to have suffered a dead leg.
Despite enduring a demanding season with 64 appearances for club and country, Rice is keen to play if called upon. However, with qualification for the knockout rounds still within reach, Tuchel may consider rotating his midfield. Rice currently faces a disciplinary risk after receiving a yellow card against Ghana, which could trigger a suspension for England’s opening knockout fixture should they progress.
The Three Lions remain top of Group L despite a draw with Ghana, knowing that a victory over Panama in their third and final group game would guarantee first place. The match is scheduled for tomorrow at 10pm.
Injuries have a way of unsettling finely-tuned squads, a reminder that even in the most competitive arenas, fragility lurks beneath the surface. As England prepares for pivotal encounters, the depth and flexibility of the squad will surely be tested like never before. The path to glory often winds through adversity.
