England right-back Reece James was absent from training as the Three Lions ramped up preparations for their FIFA World Cup meeting with Mexico, as per reports. Thomas Tuchel’s side are set to take on the hosts in what is expected to be a keen contest in Mexico City.
Journalist Matt Law has revealed that James was absent from the open training session held by the Three Lions ahead of facing Mexico. The 26-year-old is doubtful for the Round of 16 encounter and faces a race against time to be fit for the game.
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Reece James injured his hamstring in the closing stages of England’s group stage meeting with Ghana. The Chelsea man was observed showing some discomfort in the closing stages of the game, but he completed the game because they had used up all their substitutions.
James was initially reported to potentially be ruled out of the remainder of the tournament, but recent scans have shown a positive evolution in his injury. The game at the Azteca could, however, come too soon for him, as he has yet to join in team training since the Ghana game.
Thomas Tuchel took James to the FIFA World Cup for his first taste of the tournament with his country after injury denied him a place in the tournament four years ago. He was the only natural right-back in the squad following an injury to Tino Livramento, and the German coach will need to find a solution once more in the position.
Jarrel Quansah started at right-back in the final group game against Panama before picking up an injury. Djed Spence started against DR Congo in the Round of 32, and either player can feature in the game against Mexico.
England set for major FIFA World Cup test against Mexico
England are set to face a major test in their FIFA World Cup Round of 16 meeting against Mexico. The Three Lions made it to the Round of 16 after a comeback victory over DR Congo in the first knockout round.
Thomas Tuchel’s side will face the co-hosts, who have yet to lose or concede a single goal all tournament. The match will take place at the Azteca Stadium, where El Tri have not lost a single game in 13 years.
England will have to contend with the altitude in the stadium, which sits at about 2,200 meters above sea level. The hosts have won all of their games so far at the stadium in this FIFA World Cup, and will aim to maintain their 100% record in the competition.
Edited by Sulayman Salahudeen
