Kobbie Mainoo a candidate to replace Rice; final decision to be made before Saturday’s match
England are assessing Declan Rice and Reece James to decide whether they will be fit enough to play in Saturday’s World Cup match against Panama.
James reported hamstring tightness after England’s goalless draw with Ghana and will be monitored by medical staff over the coming days. Rice also requires assessment after leaving Boston Stadium with heavy strapping on his left calf, although sources have said there is no major concern over his participation in the tournament in the long term.
The potential absence of either player would present a challenge for England and Thomas Tuchel, having already lost reserve right-back Tino Livramento to a calf injury.
Rice has been managing nerve pain related to a hamstring problem since December and was substituted during the Croatia match. The Arsenal midfielder has maintained he is fit to play but England’s coaching staff must decide whether to risk him against Panama with the knockout phase approaching.
Kobbie Mainoo is a candidate to replace Rice in midfield if the 27-year-old is rested. James’s situation is more complicated given England’s limited options at right-back. Ezri Konsa could be moved across from central defence, while Djed Spence and Jarell Quansah are also available. Trevoh Chalobah was added to the squad after Livramento’s withdrawal.
A final decision on James and Rice will be made after further assessments before Saturday’s match in New Jersey.
