England's right‑back crisis deepens as James doubts World Cup knockout

Reece James is doubtful for England's next two World Cup games after a hamstring problem forces him to miss Saturday's clash with Panama at New York's MetLife Stadium and may keep him out of the last‑32 tie. The Chelsea captain, with 26 caps, adds to a defensive shortage that already saw Tino Livramento ruled out. Manager Thomas Tuchel now faces further problems in the right‑back position after Tino Livramento was ruled out of the World Cup. Tuchel also opted not to select Real Madrid’s Trent Alexander‑Arnold, neither in his initial squad nor when choosing Chelsea centre‑back Trevoh Chalobah to replace Livramento. Djed Spence, Ezri Konsa and Jarell Quansah are the likeliest options to stand in for James at MetLife Stadium. All three have been named among England’s defensive backups for the tournament.

James' hamstring doubts loom as Rice readies for Panama clash

James started England’s 2‑1 win over Croatia and the 0‑0 draw with Ghana earlier in the tournament. The right‑back has accumulated 26 caps in a career hampered by injuries. He missed eight weeks between March and May with a hamstring strain before returning at the end of the season. That injury lay the groundwork for his current fitness concerns.

England face full‑back dilemma as Reece James skips Panama prep

Speaking to BBC 5 Live, James said he was bored of constantly discussing his injury history. “I have one job, which is to be the best I can when I’m on the pitch,” he said, adding that the constant talk about injuries “gets boring now”.