England boss Thomas Tuchel defended his full‑back choices after confirming that Chelsea right‑back Reece James will miss Saturday’s Group L clash with Panama. James was examined by team doctors following a hamstring complaint in the goalless draw with Ghana and has not travelled from the Kansas City base. Tuchel insists the winger remains in contention for a possible last‑32 tie and keep morale high for England.

Tuchel’s selection pool featured only three recognised full‑backs: Djed Spence, James and Tino Livramento, with midfielder‑turned‑left‑back Nico O’Reilly and centre‑back Dan Burn listed as backup options. Injuries to James and Livramento have prompted criticism of the narrow‑band approach, yet the manager highlighted alternatives such as right‑back Spence and centre‑backs Jarell Quansah and Ezri Konsa to cover any unforeseen absences.

Despite the setbacks, Tuchel confirmed that Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson are fit for the Panama game, with Rice and Anderson returning after missing Thursday’s session. He described James’ hamstring as minor and said the player follows an accelerated rehab programme, adding that England will ‘move on’ and field the best available squad in World Cup competition as the tournament reaches its climax.