World Cup 2026: Thomas Tuchel defends full-back choice after Reece James harm

England supervisor Thomas Tuchel has defended his full-back choice coverage after confirming Reece James will miss Saturday’s World Cup match in opposition to Panama.

As revealed by BBC Sport this week, James was assessed by England medics following Tuesday’s goalless draw in opposition to Ghana after complaining of a hamstring problem.

Tuchel has since confirmed that the Chelsea right-back has not travelled to New Jersey from their Kansas Metropolis base for his or her ultimate Group L sport in opposition to Panama on Saturday (22:00 BST). He insists James has an opportunity of taking part in in England’s last-32 match subsequent week.

Nonetheless, BBC Sport understands that James is a major doubt for the beginning of the knockout levels, with England now assured a spot even when they had been to drop to 3rd of their group.

James’ harm – and the calf problem that triggered Tino Livramento to return dwelling from the US – has thrown into query Tuchel’s determination to carry simply three recognised full-backs to the World Cup.

Djed Spence, James and Livramento had been the one real full-backs chosen.

Nico O’Reilly, who performed at left-back for Manchester Metropolis final season, can also be within the squad – however he got here by way of the ranks at Etihad Stadium as a midfielder. Dan Burn has additionally performed at left-back however is recognised as a centre-back.

Spence and central defenders Jarell Quansah and Ezri Konsa are Tuchel’s various choices at right-back.

Nonetheless, Tuchel stated: “Sure, I’m [happy with my options at right-back]. I chosen the staff, so I am very proud of every thing with the attribute of the gamers and strengths that they provide us.

“We’d like to have each single key participant, we might like to have them obtainable, it is not obtainable – we discover options, it is what we do. It is a event, we transfer on.”

James and Livramento, specifically, have a chequered harm historical past and Tuchel’s determination to take each to the World Cup is prone to be known as into query.

Tuchel, although, is assured James will play once more within the World Cup.

“It is a minor hamstring problem, he isn’t been capable of practice the final two days,” confirmed Tuchel.

“He is now on an accelerated rehabilitation program and we take it sport by sport, however we strongly consider that he can be obtainable [during the tournament].”

There was higher information as regards to the provision of Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson, who Tuchel stated would all be obtainable to face Panama.

Rice (calf) and Anderson (glute) missed coaching on Thursday – however returned on Friday.

Tuchel confirmed Saka is able to begin after coming off the bench within the opening two matches due to a long-term Achilles tendinitis grievance.