Major Blow for England: Key Player Out, No Obvious Replacement

A victory would secure the top spot in the group for Thomas Tuchel's squad, but a loss could see them drop to third. Regardless, their progression to the Round of 16 is already guaranteed.

According to BBC Sport, James was examined by English medical staff after Tuesday's goalless draw with Ghana, having complained of hamstring issues. Tuchel subsequently confirmed that the Chelsea full-back did not travel from the training base in Kansas City to New Jersey for the final Group L match against Panama.

Last season, James started only 20 league games due to various injuries, yet Tuchel still called him up for the World Cup in North America and Mexico. The latest health setback for the 26-year-old is not linked to his previous injury woes.

"Nobody could have predicted this. Reece was in good form and felt very well. So it's a bit unlucky, but Ezri Konsa has played at a high level for us in that position. We still don't have any problem," Tuchel reported.

James's injury and the calf problem that forced Tino Livramento to return home from the United States raise questions about Tuchel's decision to bring only three full-backs to the World Cup.

There was no place in the squad for Real Madrid right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold, for example. "Djed Spence, James, and Livramento – all of whom had similar injury issues last season – were the only true full-backs selected for the World Cup squad," BBC Sport critically added.