Reece James out, Saka fit: Tuchel reveals England squad news ahead of Panama match

England manager Thomas Tuchel has confirmed that Reece James will miss Saturday’s World Cup Group L match against Panama after suffering a minor hamstring injury, although the defender is expected to return later in the tournament.

James did not travel with the squad after missing training for the past two days, dealing a blow to England’s bid to secure qualification for the knockout rounds. The Three Lions lead Group L on four points, level with Ghana but lead on goal difference, while Croatia are third with three points. Panama have already been eliminated after losing both their opening matches.

However, Tuchel remains optimistic that James could return if England progress from the group stage.

“He has a slight hamstring injury. He has not been able to train for the last two days,” Tuchel told reporters.

“He is on an accelerated rehabilitation program. We will take it match by match, but we strongly believe that he will be available again for the tournament.”

The England boss admitted that the setback came unexpectedly.

“No one saw it coming. Reece felt good and he was in good shape. We would like to have Reece, he is a good player and we will look for solutions. That is what we are doing.”

Tuchel added that a return to the round of 32 remains possible, although he described the timetable as “tight”.

JACKET FIT AGAIN

England received positive news elsewhere, p Bukayo, then Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson return to training following fitness concerns after the goalless draw against Ghana.

“Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson trained with us today. They had minor problems after the game, but apart from Reece James, everyone is available for us. We will decide tomorrow,” said Tuchel.

Giving an update on Saka, he added: “He is now completely out of discomfort and ready to go.”

CALL TRANSFER

Tuchel also addressed the speculation surrounding Anderson, who has been linked with a high-profile move from Nottingham Forest to Manchester City during the World Cup.

While discussions about recognition are ongoing, the England boss insisted the transfer saga will not distract the midfielder ahead of the Panama game.

“The reality is that transfers happen and big transfers take time,” Tuchel said.

“We understand that things happen. We will facilitate the transfer, but after the game, not before.”

PANAMA WARNING

Although Panama are already out of the tournament, Tuchel expects a tough game and warned against complacency.

Tuchel described Panama as a “well-trained team” and said their underdog status could make them dangerous as they can play “without pressure”.

England need a positive result against Panama guarantee their place in the knockout rounds and will hope to do so despite being without James.

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Issued by:

Amar Panicker

Published on:

Jun 27, 2026 05:32 IST