England have been dealt a significant injury blow ahead of their pivotal World Cup group match against Panama, as defender Reece James missed another training session on Friday. The Chelsea captain sat out due to a tight hamstring, an issue he first picked up during Tuesday's goalless draw with Ghana.
James was absent from the squad when Thomas Tuchel's team trained on Friday, alongside Declan Rice, who is also understood to have picked up a knock. However, Rice is expected to be fit for the Panama clash, while James' hamstring issue appears more concerning.
James' Injury History Raises Concerns
Given James' well-known history of muscle injuries, it is highly unlikely that Tuchel will take any chances with the 26-year-old. The rest of the England squad participated successfully in this morning's training at the Swope Soccer Village, while James followed his own customised recovery programme.
With England already securing their place in the knockout stages, the Three Lions' manager is adamant about not risking James' fitness, even though a win is still needed to ensure top spot in Group L. James has played in both of England's World Cup matches so far, but his recent absence puts him in a race against time to be fit for the clash with Panama at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Potential Replacements for James
England are already missing injured right-back Tino Livramento, who had to pull out of the squad before the tournament started, leaving Tuchel with a significant selection headache if James does not recover in time. Spence, Ezri Konsa, and Jarell Quansah are among the potential replacements if the Chelsea captain is ruled out.
Rice Expected to Play
Declan Rice also missed Thursday's session, although the Arsenal ace has seemingly overcome the knock sustained in the previous match. In a significant boost for England, he is likely to be fit for the Panama clash.
James did not participate in the group session, instead following a specially tailored rehabilitation plan. The rest of the England squad successfully took part in this morning's session at the Swope Soccer Village.
