FIFA World Cup 2026: England without Reece James for Panama clash, Saka and Rice fit to play
Los Angeles, June 27
Thomas Tuchel will be without Reece James for England's final FIFA World Cup Group L match against Panama on Saturday due to injury, but the coach confirmed that Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson are all available as his side aims to secure qualification for the next round.
Tuchel confirmed that James has not travelled with the squad and will definitely miss the match, although he remains hopeful the right-back could return later in the tournament.
England lead the group on four points, level with Ghana, while Croatia sit third on three points, and Panama remain bottom without a point.
"He has a minor hamstring injury. He was not able to train the last two days. He's on an accelerated rehab programme. We will take it game by game, but we strongly believe that he will be available for us again in the tournament. No one could see that coming. Reece felt good and was in good shape. We would love to have Reece, he's a good player, and we will look for solutions. That's what we do," Tuchel said as per Reuters.
"Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson trained with us today. They had minor issues after the game, but everyone is available for us apart from Reece James. We will make a decision tomorrow," he added.
England are strong favourites against Panama, having previously beaten the same opposition 6-1 in 2018. However, Panama have yet to score in the tournament, following narrow 1-0 defeats to both Ghana and Croatia.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good news for England fans! Saka and Rice are crucial. But I feel for Reece James—injuries always come at the worst time. Hope he recovers soon. Also, interesting group: England and Ghana level on points, Croatia lurking close. This World Cup is shaping up nicely!
Honestly, I'm more interested in Ghana vs. Croatia. England will beat Panama easily, no doubt. But the real battle is for second place. Ghana playing some solid football this WC—hope they go through! 🇬🇭
England missing Reece is a blow, but they still have a stacked squad. Sriram's comment: Tuchel should be careful not to underestimate Panama—stranger things have happened in football! Also, great to see Elliot Anderson getting chances. Young talent needs to be nurtured.
I know England are favorites, but let's not forget—football isn't played on paper! Panama may be winless, but they've been competitive, losing by just one goal. England need to be clinical. Tuchel's experience will help, but every game is a new challenge.
As a neutral fan, I hope Panama scores at least one goal! They've been solid defensively but lack firepower. England should win 3-0 or 4-0. And about Reece—hamstring injuries are tricky. Hope he's back for the knockouts. 🙏
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