Three Lions have qualified for the next round but now have genuine concerns about the fitness of key players
England could be without Elliot Anderson for their final World Cup group match against Panama after the midfielder picked up a muscle problem, while Reece James has been ruled out with a minor hamstring injury.
Anderson has started both of England’s Group L matches under Thomas Tuchel, playing 163 minutes against Croatia and Ghana, but is struggling with soreness in his glute muscle and is a doubt for Saturday’s game at MetLife Stadium.
James will also miss the match in what has been described as a planned decision by England’s medical staff. The Chelsea defender’s injury is not thought to be serious, although he could also miss the last-32 tie if England qualify.
England have already reached the knockout stage and are aiming to win Group G with victory against Panama. But tougher tests than Croatia, Ghana or Panama await in the knockouts and the Three Lions now have genuine concerns about the fitness of key players.
Tino Livramento has been ruled out of the tournament. James is a concern on the other flank and Declan Rice had to leave the stadium with bandages and a limp after the draw with Ghana.
Rotations can still be done to adapt the squad and ensure that players are available against the best teams in the knockouts, but now there is a real worry that injuries could throw a spanner in the works as Tuchel aims to lead England to a first trophy since 1966.
Anderson’s fitness concern comes as he closes in on a move to Manchester City from Nottingham Forest. The 23-year-old has been given permission to undergo a medical after the clubs exchanged paperwork for a deal worth £116m ($153m).
The midfielder has agreed a five-year contract, with the option of an extra year. If performance bonuses are met, he could earn about £300,000 a week.
The transfer would make Anderson the most expensive British player in history and would break Manchester City’s transfer record, beating the £100m they paid for Jack Grealish in 2021.
Anderson has won 11 England caps since making his debut in September, while James has played 26 times for his country.
