Updated
Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jun 30
England Lose 2 Right-Backs for DR Congo Clash as Quansah, James Miss Training
Updated
Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jun 30

England Lose 2 Right-Backs for DR Congo Clash as Quansah, James Miss Training

3 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jun 30

Summary

  • Jarell Quansah and Reece James both missed England training before Wednesday's World Cup last-32 tie with DR Congo, deepening Thomas Tuchel's problems at right-back.
  • Quansah twisted an ankle in Saturday's 2-0 win over Panama, while James has yet to return after the hamstring injury he suffered in the 0-0 draw with Ghana.
  • James had previously been considered a possible option for the knockout game, but his continued absence from training leaves his involvement looking doubtful.
  • Djed Spence, who replaced Quansah against Panama and has already played on both flanks in the tournament, is the leading cover option, with Ezri Konsa another possibility.
  • The injuries have intensified scrutiny of Tuchel's squad balance after Tino Livramento withdrew before the tournament and Trevoh Chalobah was called up mainly as central-defence cover.

Insights

Is England's right-back crisis a case of bad luck or a predictable failure in squad planning?
Can a makeshift defence carry England through the World Cup knockouts after multiple key injuries?
Was snubbing Trent Alexander-Arnold the crucial mistake that will cost England its World Cup?