James faces late fitness call as Quansah returns for England

Reece James is uncertain for England’s World Cup last-16 tie with Mexico after sitting out the final team training session. Jarell Quansah, however, has returned to full training and is available for selection.

James has not yet fully rejoined the squad since a hamstring problem picked up late in the goalless draw with Ghana. The Football Association said he was working on an individual programme away from the main group, and Thomas Tuchel indicated a late check would determine whether he could even make the bench.

Quansah’s return gives England a useful defensive option after his own hamstring issue in the Panama match. With Djed Spence having started at right-back against DR Congo and Declan Rice finishing that game there, Tuchel’s choices on that side of the defence remain a key pre-match talking point.

Rice has also been managing a hamstring concern but is expected to be available at the Azteca Stadium. England’s selection picture therefore appears stronger than it might have been, though James’ status remains the main unresolved question before kick-off.