Declan Rice Returns to England Squad as Reece James Sidelined with Hamstring Issue

Declan Rice was back with the England squad on Friday, while Reece James stayed out amid uncertainty over his fitness for the final Group L match versus Panama.

James picked up a hamstring problem during England’s goalless draw with Ghana on Tuesday and did not join the team’s group session ahead of the trip to New York.

The 26‑year‑old continued with an individual rehabilitation plan at the Kansas City training base, remaining off the main pitch with his teammates.

Thomas Tuchel has Jarell Quansah, Djed Spence and Ezri Konsa available as backup choices at right‑back.

James remains a vital part of England’s plans, and Tuchel will be hoping the injury is only a short‑term setback.

After the Ghana match, Rice departed Boston Stadium with a strapped left calf and skipped Thursday’s session, though the concern was deemed minor and expected to resolve with rest.

The Arsenal midfielder is anticipated to be fit for the Panama clash on Saturday at 22:00 BST.

Whether Tuchel will hand Rice a starting spot is still unclear, as the midfielder faces a possible suspension for the last‑16 after receiving a booking against Ghana.

Elliot Anderson, Rice’s midfield partner who is linked with a £116 million transfer from Nottingham Forest to Manchester City, missed Thursday’s training but returned on Friday.

A victory over Panama would see England finish top of Group L and set up their path in the knockout rounds.

Source link