Thomas Tuchel has confirmed England defender Jarell Quansah suffered a twisted ankle in the victory over Panama, admitting he has growing concerns over the right-back position. Quansah came into the starting XI for Saturday’s final group game after Reece James was ruled out with a hamstring injury. The Chelsea captain is also a major doubt for England’s last 32 match taking place on Wednesday.
Right-back crisis deepens
England lost Tino Livramento to injury the day before their campaign began with James’ absence creating a big problem at right-back. Despite having Djed Spence available, Tuchel opted for Quansah against Panama before his game came to a premature end. The Bayer Leverkusen star hobbled off after 64 minutes after a challenge from Jose Luis Rodriguez. England went on to seal a 2-0 win that confirmed their place at the top of Group L.
Tuchel's update on Quansah
Speaking in his post-match press conference, Tuchel admitted his defender was ‘in pain’ and is a doubt for Wednesday’s last 32 game against either Senegal or DR Congo. ‘Classic ankle twist,’ Tuchel said when asked for an update on the former Liverpool defender. ‘He is in pain. He said he had it before and it is a matter of days. He has his leg up high and in ice.’
Limited options at right-back
An injury for Quansah leaves Tuchel short of another option at right-back. Djed Spence is available but has also been used to provide cover at left-back. Ezri Konsa can play that role but has been used exclusively at centre-half by Tuchel with Trevoh Chalobah called into the squad to replace Livramento earlier this month. ‘Naturally of course we have another injury in the position,’ Tuchel said. ‘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.’
