England manager Thomas Tuchel has revealed he received no explanation from FIFA regarding the upgrade of Jarell Quansah's red card to a two-match suspension, leaving the Three Lions boss frustrated ahead of a crucial World Cup quarter-final.
Tuchel's Blunt Response
FIFA classified the dismissal as serious foul play, meaning Quansah will now miss both the Norway match and the World Cup semi-final, should England advance past The Vikings in Miami. When asked whether he received any communication from FIFA on the decision, Tuchel said in his press conference at Hard Rock Stadium: "No, I don't think so but we also have no explanation."
A FIFA communications representative jokingly added: "If you want a response from FIFA, email media@fifa.com," leading to widespread laughter in the room.
Quansah's Ban Details
Quansah was sent off in England's 3-2 Round of 16 win over Mexico following a high lunge on Jesus Gallardo. He will only be available to feature for the Three Lions again in the tournament if England reach the final or third or fourth-place play-off. The FA were thought to be considering an appeal, but no official challenge has been lodged.
Injury Boost for England
England's ranks have been bolstered by Reece James returning to training. James has been missing since the 0-0 draw with Ghana in Boston but is now stepping up his recovery from a hamstring strain. He was back on the grass with the Three Lions at Inter Miami on Friday afternoon (local time) and appears ready to play some part in Saturday's last-eight clash, though there is no indication he will start.
Marc Guehi has been nursing a hamstring issue himself following the 3-2 win over Mexico at the Azteca last weekend. Meanwhile, Declan Rice has been suffering from illness having also battled neural pain in his hamstring and lower back.
Tuchel's Message to the Squad
Tuchel also said while analyzing the shape of his side: "We took a big step in our last match but it was only a step, we are hungry. We're going to need to be at our best for sure. This is the time to show it, in a big quarter-final stage, we want to show what type of team we can be."
There is still slim hope Jordan Henderson could yet be involved in a matchday squad before the end of the tournament. He was spotted watching training in Miami and sat on a bench with England coaching staff with his arm in a cast.
