Reece James is expected to be absent from England’s FIFA World Cup match against Panama due to an injury. The Chelsea player has been sidelined from training this week.
The Independent reports that James is struggling with a hamstring injury, although he has participated in both of England’s previous matches. He played from the start in the 4-2 victory over Croatia and completed the entire match against Ghana, which ended with no goals.
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Thomas Tuchel faces a challenge as James’ alternative, Tino Livramento, is already out of the tournament. Trevoh Chalobah has been called up as his replacement. Chalobah was on vacation in the United States when he received the call.
The Three Lions are anticipated to field Djed Spence as the right-back against Panama, with Nico O’Reilly returning to the starting lineup at left-back. The Football Association has suggested that James is in a race against time to be fit for the Round of 32, noting that he is ‘following his own programme’ in recovery.
The 26-year-old has a history of injuries, but managed to stay fit throughout 2025. Discussing his collaboration with Tuchel, he said:
“I had an amazing time with the manager together at Chelsea and I’m happy he’s the [England] boss. I’m glad to work with him again. Timing is everything [in football] and I’ve missed a few major tournaments. I’ve tried to be ready and be as well prepared as possible for this one, and I’ll give my country my all.”
“For sure, that’s why we’re here [to win the World Cup]. We didn’t come to just take part, and as we speak, we’re on the mountain, still climbing. There’s still room to go for sure and it’s good the fans are in high spirits, but the tournament is yet to start for us so we have a long way to go.”
England also have Jarell Quansha as another option to replace Reece James, while Chalobah has experience playing as a right-back for Chelsea.
Reece James on England support at the FIFA World Cup
Reece James shared his thoughts on England’s support with the Chelsea website prior to the FIFA World Cup, stating that it is highly valued by the players. He commented:
“The support is huge. Sometimes that plays as the 12th man in difficult games. The support means everything to the players. Families and friends travelling all over the world to watch their loved ones play.”
If England secures a win in their FIFA World Cup group, they could face teams like Ecuador, Ivory Coast, Uruguay, Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Iraq, Austria, Algeria, DR Congo, or Uzbekistan.
Edited by Sripad
