England manager Thomas Tuchel is facing an injury nightmare ahead of England’s World Cup knock-out clash with DR Congo. Tuchel admits Jarrel Quansah and Reece James are both facing a “race” against time to play in Atlanta on Wednesday.
James Set to Miss DR Congo Clash
James is set to miss that game but is hopeful of playing in later rounds, with England facing a potential last 16 tie with Mexico in Mexico City on July 5. The right-back has been nursing a hamstring issue but travelled to New Jersey with the rest of the squad, raising hopes he could be fit by next weekend.
Quansah Latest Victim of Right-Back Curse
Quansah was the latest victim of the right-back curse after he limped out of the win over Panama with an ankle injury and is unlikely to be fit for DR Congo. Quansah was walking normally after the game, but it is yet another headache because James is out, Tino Livramento went home before the tournament after getting injured, and his replacement Trevoh Chalobah is not a natural full-back.
Tuchel's Options Limited
Chalobah can play at right-back and is another option but is not a specialist. The hope is that James could be fit by next weekend. They could also move Ezri Konsa to right-back, with John Stones coming back into central defence after being left out of the starting XI in the last two games.
Tuchel's Reaction
When asked about Quansah’s injury, Tuchel said: “Classic ankle twist and he is in pain. He said he had it before and it is a matter of days. He has his leg up high and in ice.” Tuchel, who has been criticised for not picking Trent Alexander-Arnold in his squad, admitted the right-back slot is a major concern but insisted they can find a way to deal with it. When asked if he was concerned, Tuchel said: “Naturally. Of course, we have another injury in the position. 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.”
