England defender Reece James eases injury fears following Mexico victory
Chelsea defender Reece James has eased England’s severe defensive crisis after he was seen sprinting during celebrations following their World Cup last-16 victory over Mexico at the Estadio Azteca.
The Three Lions advanced to the quarter-finals courtesy of a Jude Bellingham brace and a Harry Kane penalty.
Thomas Tuchel’s side will now face Norway in Miami on Saturday night, but they entered the knockout stages facing a critical shortage of fit full-backs.
Defensive headache worsens
Jarell Quansah was rushed back into the starting lineup against the tournament co-hosts but was sent off early in the second half.
The central defender’s subsequent suspension compounds the issue, especially as deputy Djed Spence has struggled to impress on the international stage.
However, the sight of the Chelsea captain moving freely and leaping in front of travelling supporters provides a significant and timely boost.
Hamstring concerns lifting
The dynamic right-back had been entirely sidelined with a hamstring problem during the group-stage victories over Panama and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
He also missed full squad training sessions in the build-up to the Mexico clash, relying instead on a tailored individual fitness programme.
It remains unclear if the experienced defender will be fully cleared to participate against the Scandinavians this weekend.
Waiting on medical clearance
Prior to the dramatic knockout tie, the national team manager admitted he was unsure if his injured star could feature.
“Reece can maybe make it onto the bench, but we need the last assessment from the doctors and the medical opinion [as to] whether this makes sense.”
Thomas Tuchel
England medical staff will closely monitor the London-born defender over the coming days before making a final decision on his match fitness.