Quansah Out for DR Congo Match, Tuchel's Options Dwindle

England's defensive woes on the right flank are set to continue plaguing Thomas Tuchel as the Three Lions head into their first knockout stage match. According to reports from the UK, Jarell Quansah, who sustained an ankle injury during the clash with Panama, will not be fit for the Round of 16 encounter against DR Congo. Reece James is also sidelined with an injury, and Tino Livramento has already returned home for surgery. This leaves Jed Spence as the likely starter at right-back. The Tottenham player also started against Ghana, though he featured at left-back in that game. Against Panama, he replaced Quansah after the Bayer Leverkusen player was forced off the pitch.

Currently, other options for the right side of the defense involve retraining Ezri Konsa or John Stones. Some of the most significant criticisms leveled at Thomas Tuchel's squad selection revolved around the German's persistent refusal to include Real Madrid star Trent Alexander-Arnold.