Reece James injury leaves England short at right-back

Reece James could miss a significant part of England’s World Cup campaign after injuring his hamstring in the 0-0 draw with Ghana. He has not travelled with the squad to New Jersey for the Panama match, leaving Thomas Tuchel without his first-choice right-back for now.

The issue is especially awkward because Tino Livramento had already withdrawn from the squad with a hamstring problem. England’s remaining options on the right side of defence include Djed Spence, Jarell Quansah, Ezri Konsa and Trevoh Chalobah, but none offers a simple like-for-like solution based on the information reported.

James is reportedly staying with the camp rather than leaving the tournament, with the hope of being available later if England go deep into the knockout rounds. That timeline still needs caution, as it depends on his recovery and on England extending their run.

England are already through to the last 32, but topping Group L still matters for their route through the tournament. Tuchel may also have to manage fitness elsewhere, with Elliot Anderson being assessed and Declan Rice potentially handled carefully before the knockout stage.