Thomas Tuchel has admitted to mounting concerns over England's injury situation ahead of their World Cup knockout stage match against DR Congo on Wednesday. The England manager confirmed that both Jarrel Quansah and Reece James are in a desperate race against time to be available for the clash in Atlanta.
Right-Back Woes Deepen
James appears set to miss the DR Congo fixture, though there remains hope he could return for the later stages. England could face a last-16 tie against Mexico in Mexico City on July 5. Quansah became the latest casualty after limping off during the victory over Panama with an ankle injury, making him unlikely to feature against DR Congo.
Despite being seen walking unaided after the match, Quansah's setback adds to Tuchel's headaches. James is already sidelined, Tino Livramento left the tournament before it started due to injury, and his replacement Trevoh Chalobah is not a natural full-back.
Potential Solutions
Chalobah remains an option at right-back, albeit not as a specialist. James travelled to New Jersey with the squad and could recover in time for next weekend, offering some encouragement following his hamstring problem. Tuchel could also deploy Ezri Konsa at right-back, with John Stones pushing for a recall to central defence after being left out of the starting XI for the previous two matches.
Asked about Quansah's condition, Tuchel said: "Classic ankle twist and 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."
Tuchel Confident in Solutions
Tuchel, who has faced criticism for leaving Trent Alexander-Arnold out of his squad, conceded that the right-back position is a significant worry. However, he remained confident a solution could be found. Pressed on whether he harboured concerns, Tuchel said: "Naturally. Of course, 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."
Meanwhile, Tuchel stressed that Stones is in full fitness despite limited action for Manchester City last season. The England boss revealed that Konsa and Marc Guehi are developing a strong partnership. Tuchel added: "Yeah, for sure. Why not? He was even in consideration to start, but then it would have been the third change in the central defence in the third match, and I thought I'd stick with the pair because I saw them good against Ghana and I saw them good against Panama."
