Declan Rice returns to England training, Reece James still sidelined
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Declan Rice has returned to England training, but Reece James is still sidelined with a hamstring issue.
- James's availability for England's final group game against Panama remains uncertain.
- Rice is expected to be available, though his booking against Ghana puts him at risk of suspension.
Declan Rice has rejoined the England squad's training sessions, offering a boost ahead of their final group stage match. However, the team faces continued uncertainty regarding Reece James, who missed the latest training session due to a hamstring problem sustained during the draw with Ghana.
James, a key defender for England, was observed working on an individual program indoors rather than participating on the pitch with his teammates. His absence raises questions about England's defensive options at right-back, with coach Thomas Tuchel reportedly considering Jarell Quansah, Djed Spence, and Ezri Konsa as alternatives. The team hopes James's injury is not a long-term concern that could impact his participation in the tournament.
Meanwhile, midfielder Declan Rice is expected to be available for the upcoming game against Panama. Despite a previous knock to his calf that caused him to miss training, he has recovered sufficiently. However, Rice is at risk of suspension for the round of 32 due to a prior yellow card received against Ghana, leaving coach Tuchel with a decision to make about starting him.
Elliot Anderson, another midfielder, also missed training but has since recovered and rejoined the squad. England aims to secure the top spot in Group L with a victory against Panama, which would position them favorably for the knockout stages.
Originally published by BBC News in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.