England have been dealt a new injury blow after Jarell Quansah was forced off with an ankle problem during the 1-0 win against Panama in their final Group L match. The defender, who started in place of the injured Reece James, was substituted shortly after the hour mark at the New York/New Jersey Stadium.
Tuchel Confirms Quansah Doubtful for Knockout Stage
Thomas Tuchel, the England manager, confirmed after the match that Quansah is now a doubt for the round of 32 clash in Atlanta on July 1. “Classic ankle twist and he is in pain,” Tuchel said in the post-match press conference. “He said he had it before and it is a matter of days. He has his leg up high and in ice.”
Quansah, on loan at Bayer Leverkusen, received treatment from England’s medical staff before being replaced by Djed Spence. The injury adds to Tuchel’s concerns at right-back, with James already awaiting scan results on a hamstring injury sustained during the 0-0 draw with Ghana.
Tuchel Vows to Find Solutions
“Naturally of course we have another injury in the position,” Tuchel added. “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.” With James likely to miss the last-32 clash and Quansah now a doubt, Spence remains the only natural right-back option in the squad.
Tuchel made five changes from the Ghana draw, including handing Quansah his first start. Bukayo Saka also started but was withdrawn seconds after providing the assist for Jude Bellingham’s winning goal. Declan Rice was an unused substitute. “Bukayo’s not a problem,” Tuchel said. “Declan, had the chance to take him completely off the match, to not do not concede a second yellow, which helps us a lot.”
England, who finished top of Group L, now face a quick turnaround ahead of the knockout stage. Tuchel’s side will be hoping for positive news on both James and Quansah as they prepare for the next round.
