James' hamstring doubts loom as Rice readies for Panama clash

Reece James' hamstring injury, first noted after England's 0‑0 draw with Ghana, threatens his availability for the Saturday World Cup group match against Panama, while Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice is expected to return to training and could feature in the same fixture. James, the 26‑year‑old Chelsea defender, has missed both training sessions since the clash with the Black Stars and was absent from Friday's group training before the squad's departure to New York. He remained inside the Kansas City training base on an individual programme and did not join his teammates on the pitch. The injury raises doubts over his participation in England's knockout fixtures should the team progress. Coach Thomas Tuchel's decision to bring only three recognised full‑backs to the tournament is now under scrutiny. Tino Livramento left the tournament after sustaining his own injury, leaving Djed Spence and James as the only genuine full‑backs selected. Nico O'Reilly, listed as a left‑back but originally a midfielder, and central defenders Jarell Quansah and Ezri Konsa are listed as alternative options at right‑back.

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

Midfielder Declan Rice returned to training after strapping his left calf following the Ghana draw. He missed Thursday's session at Boston Stadium but is expected to be available for the Panama game on Saturday at 22:00 BST. Rice's midfield partner Elliot Anderson, who is poised for a £116 million move from Nottingham Forest to Manchester City, missed Thursday's session but attended Friday's training. His presence underscores the midfield options available to England.

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

At Panama's training on Friday, a physical altercation saw Cecilio Waterman and José Luis Rodríguez separated by teammates. Panama coach Thomas Christiansen described the incident as a normal situation, saying, "What happened today in training, this is a normal situation," and added that such moments show the squad is alive. England can secure top spot in Group L with a win over Panama, setting up a favorable route through the knockout stages.