Chelsea captain Reece James could be a fitness concern for England in their final group stage encounter vs Panama on Saturday, June 27. As reported by Metro, the 26-year-old is struggling with a hamstring problem, which will be a major headache for Thomas Tuchel.
James has started for England in both of their first two games at the FIFA World Cup so far, playing full 90 minutes. He could be rested for the Three Lions' final group stage fixture against Panama amid fitness concerns.
England are currently leading Group L after two games, and a win against Panama would guarantee them the top spot. Missing James against Panama would be a setback for Tuchel, but a rest could maximise his availability in the latter stages of the tournament.
England have Djed Spence as a natural right-back to cover for the Chelsea star but the Tottenham full-back was used as a left-back against Ghana. Jarell Quansah, Ezri Konsa and Trevoh Chalobah are also more than capable of playing at right-back if called upon.
Reece James has a poor injury history over the years but had a relatively injury-free campaign last time out. He only missed 14 games across competitions last season and nine of them were because of a hamstring problem.
Marc Cucurella wants former Chelsea teammate to join him at Real Madrid
Marc Cucurella has urged his former Chelsea teammate Enzo Fernandez to join him at Real Madrid. Cucurella joined Los Blancos just before the FIFA World Cup in a deal worth €60 million.
Speaking to the media, Cucurella revealed that Enzo Fernandez congratulated him on the move. He hinted that the Argentine midfield maestro could be keen on a move to the Santiago Bernabeu as well. He said:
"He's a great player and a friend of mine. He congratulated me on the signing. I hope it happens. I would be very happy. We were very happy at Chelsea, and to have the opportunity to both sign for Real Madrid in the same summer. I hope he's lucky and becomes a Real Madrid player."
Enzo Fernandez has been linked with a move to Real Madrid on several occasions in the past. The Argentine has been a key player for Chelsea over the years since his reported £106.8 million move from Benfica in January 2023. He has made 169 appearances for the Blues till date, scoring 31 goals and providing 30 assists.