Reece James will not be joining his team-mates as England train at the Pumas MX Cantera in Mexico City on Saturday ahead of their big match against the co-hosts in the World Cup round of 16 at the Azteca Stadium.
Reece James’ status for England vs. Mexico is in doubt (Image: Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto)
Reece James missed England’s final training session before their World Cup Round of 16 match against co-hosts Mexico as it was doubtful whether the Chelsea star would play at the Azteca Stadium.
The right-back has been absent since the 0-0 draw against Ghana in Boston due to a hamstring strain. Thomas Tuchel had shared his optimism that he might be able to prove his fitness in time for the Mexico game, but that now seems a distant prospect.
With the game against Mexico just over 24 hours away, James’ fitness is a major concern.
However, given the magnitude of the match against England, which is now in do-or-die territory, it remains to be seen whether Tuchel will decide to gamble on James’ fitness.
At least Jarrell Quansah is back on the grass as part of the group after twisting his ankle against Panama in New Jersey, which will be a big boost for Tuchel.
Quansah started in place of James due to an injury to the full-back, but then limped off. Both missed the 2-1 Round of 32 win over DR Congo in Atlanta. But James was among the players who had a full workout Saturday, including everyone but James.
Jed Spence started at right-back on Wednesday alongside Declan Rice, replacing Tuchel after the Tottenham player was substituted as England fell behind.
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