Reece James sat out England's final training session on Thursday, raising serious doubts about his availability for Saturday's Group L finale against Panama. The Chelsea right-back picked up a hamstring problem during Tuesday's goalless draw with Ghana and faces a late fitness test. Manager Thomas Tuchel will need to decide whether to include him in the matchday squad.

Declan Rice also missed the session after departing the Ghana match with strapping on his left calf. While sources suggest his issue is less severe, both players represent significant selection headaches for Tuchel. Rice carries particular risk given his booking against Ghana could see him suspended for the round of 32.

England's position atop Group L remains precarious - they trail Croatia on goal difference despite their 4-2 victory, and sit just one goal ahead of Ghana. The Panama match at New York New Jersey Stadium carries real weight for knockout stage positioning. Tuchel must balance squad rotation against fielding his strongest available XI.

The injury concerns arrive at the worst possible moment with England's World Cup 2026 campaign entering its decisive phase. Both James and Rice have featured in England's opening two matches, making their potential absences a genuine blow to Tuchel's plans.