Thomas Tuchel has provided an injury update on Declan Rice and Reece James after both stars were omitted from England's starting line-up for the World Cup group match against Panama. Rice, 27, has been nursing knocks sustained in previous group games and is also one yellow card away from a suspension.
Rice benched to manage fitness and card risk
England have already secured qualification from Group L after a win over Croatia and a draw with Ghana. However, they need a victory against Panama and at least a result equal to Ghana's against Croatia to finish top of the group. Tuchel opted to rest Rice, saying: "I take care of Declan's situation. He got a knock but is ready to play but I would like to manage his minutes. He has a yellow card so I want to see how this match plays out."
Tuchel makes five changes to starting XI
In addition to Rice, Reece James is sidelined for the match and could miss knockout stage fixtures. Tuchel made five alterations to the team that drew with Ghana. Jarell Quansah came in at right-back, while Nico O'Reilly, Bukayo Saka, Morgan Rogers and Marcus Rashford also entered the starting line-up, replacing Djed Spence, Noni Madueke, Rice and Anthony Gordon.
Tuchel explains tactical switch
Tuchel explained the reshuffle: "That's why Jude goes in the eight position and Morgan is on the 10." Rice's minutes will be managed carefully, with the manager monitoring the intensity of the match and the referee's approach to yellow cards before deciding on any late involvement.
