Reece James a fitness worry for England before Panama World Cup clash
Hamstring tightness for the Chelsea full-back hands Thomas Tuchel a right-back decision as England chase top spot in the group.
Daniel Fletcher
Writer ·
Reece James has emerged as a fitness concern for England before their World Cup group match against Panama after reporting hamstring tightness.
The issue hands Thomas Tuchel a selection decision at right-back, with England already managing other fitness questions around Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka.
Selection headache
James's defensive output and attacking threat from the right make him difficult to replace, and Tuchel must weigh the risk of starting a player carrying a knock against the benefit of a settled back line.
What is at stake
England can top the group with a strong finish, but their attacking fluency and squad balance remain under scrutiny heading into the decisive fixtures.
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