England’s Jarrell Quansah limped off with a twisted ankle in the second half of the World Cup match against Panama, where he replaced the injured Reece James.
Jarrell Quansah forced off with injury (Image: Eddie Keogh – The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
England manager Thomas Tuchel has provided an update on the fitness of right-back Jarrell Quansah. The Bayer Leverkusen defender started England’s 2-0 win over Panama at MetLife Stadium in their final Group L match, but limped off with a problem in the second half.
Quansah becomes the third right-back to be injured since the Three Lions landed in America for the World Cup, following Newcastle’s Tino Libramento and Chelsea captain Reece James. Tuchel admitted he was concerned, but made it clear the problem was not with his muscles. “It’s a typical ankle twist and I’m feeling some pain,” the German said after his team’s victory.
“He said he’s had it before, but it’s just a matter of a few days. His leg is elevated and in the ice.”
Quansah roamed freely as he left MetLife and boarded the England team bus. Asked if he was worried about the team’s reduced number of full-backs, Tuchel said: “Obviously, we’ve had another injury in this position.
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“It’s going to be a tough race for Reece James and it’s going to be a tough race for Jarrell Quansah, but it’s our job to find a solution and we will do that.”
Jed Spence is currently England’s first choice right-back and has featured in all three games in this competition. Spence impressed off the bench in the 4-2 win over Croatia in Dallas, then started in the 0-0 draw against Ghana in Boston.
The Tottenham defender is highly praised by manager Tuchel for his versatility, as he can also play as a left-back. Chelsea’s Trevo Chalobah and Aston Villa centre-back Ezri Konsa can also play at right-back if needed.
Jarrell Quansah gives Thomas Tuchel another headache (Image: Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
James’ tournament isn’t over yet. He remains in Kansas City to recover and is following a special personal training program.
Ahead of the game, Tuchel defended his decision to trust James, who has missed 14 games at club level due to injury this season.
“Nobody expected that to happen. It’s a bit unfortunate because Rees was in good form and felt very good, but Ezri Konsa played in that position for us at a high level. We have no problems yet.”
England are scheduled to face the Democratic Republic of Congo in Atlanta in the Round of 32.
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