Right-Back Injuries Impact England's World Cup Preparations
Jarell Quansah (left) replaced Reece James against Panama for his World Cup debut
Jarell Quansah and Reece James missed training as England's right-back concerns increased ahead of their World Cup last-32 match against DR Congo on Wednesday.
Quansah suffered a twisted ankle during England's 2-0 victory over Panama in their final group stage game on Saturday, leading to Djed Spence coming on to replace the Bayer Leverkusen defender.
The former Liverpool player had been introduced into the squad for his World Cup debut after Chelsea defender James was sidelined with a hamstring injury sustained during the 0-0 draw with Ghana in England's second group match.
England manager Thomas Tuchel had previously indicated that James might be available for the DR Congo fixture, but since James has not yet resumed training following his injury, his participation appears unlikely.
The injuries affecting the right-back position have intensified scrutiny on Tuchel's squad selection for the tournament, with some questioning whether the squad's composition is well balanced.
Prior to England's opening match of the tournament, Newcastle full-back Tino Livramento withdrew from the squad due to a calf injury, prompting the call-up of Trevoh Chalobah as his replacement.
Tuchel explained that Chalobah was summoned primarily as a central defensive option, with Quansah and Spence designated to cover the full-back roles.
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Spence played the final 10 minutes of England's opening group victory over Croatia at left-back, a position he occupied for most of last season at club side Tottenham.
The 25-year-old started the goalless draw with Ghana at left-back before replacing Quansah at right-back in the 63rd minute.
Tuchel may consider deploying Spence at right-back again or alternatively selecting Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa.
Konsa has become one of Tuchel's most trusted players and a regular starter since the German took charge in January 2025.
The 28-year-old made his England debut playing at right-back against Brazil in 2024, a performance praised by former manager Gareth Southgate for his effective handling of Vinicius Jr.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid defender Trent Alexander-Arnold has fallen down the England pecking order. He has only featured once under Tuchel due to injury and was not included in squads during the lead-up to this tournament.
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