England vs DR Congo: Tuchel faces right-back crisis for World Cup last 32

Thomas Tuchel is grappling with a significant right-back crisis ahead of England's World Cup round of 32 match against DR Congo on Wednesday. Jarell Quansah suffered an ankle twist that forced him off during the Panama match, leaving England without a fit specialist right-back for the clash in Atlanta.

Injury woes mount

Quansah joins Tino Livramento and Reece James on the sidelines. Livramento dropped out of the squad on the eve of the tournament with a calf injury, while James sustained a hamstring issue that kept him out of the Panama game and will also miss the DR Congo encounter. Both James and Quansah missed training on Tuesday and are unavailable for selection.

James, who has a history of injury problems, had started both of England's opening two World Cup games. His absence compounds Tuchel's defensive headache.

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Possible solutions at right-back

Tuchel may turn to Djed Spence, who is in the squad as a left-back, or shift centre-back Ezri Konsa to the right and bring John Stones back into central defence. “A classic ankle twist and he is in pain,” Tuchel said of Quansah's injury. “He said he had it before and it is a matter of days. He has his leg up high and in ice.”

The German coach admitted his concern: “Naturally, of course [I am worried about the right-back situation]. We have another injury in the position. It will be a tight race for Reece James and a tight race for Jarell Quansah, but it is our job to find solutions and we will do.”

Midfield and attack

In midfield, Declan Rice is available again after being rested against Panama. His return is likely to see Jude Bellingham, who played as a No. 8 in Rice's absence, shift back to the No. 10 role. Tuchel must also decide between Bukayo Saka and Noni Madueke on the right wing, and between Anthony Gordon and Marcus Rashford on the left.