England boss Thomas Tuchel has issued an update on the fitness of right-back Jarrell Quansah. The Bayer Leverkusen defender, who started England’s final Group L fixture – a 2-0 win over Panama at the MetLife Stadium – hobbled off with an issue during the second half.
Quansah is the third right-back, after Newcastle’s Tino Livramento and Chelsea captain Reece James, to pick up injuries since the Three Lions landed in the USA for the World Cup. Tuchel admits he’s concerned but clarified the issue is not muscular. The German said following his side’s victory: “A classic ankle twist and he is in pain.
“He said he had it before and it is a matter of days. He has his leg up high and in ice.”
Quansah walked freely as he left the MetLife to board the England team bus. When asked if he’s worried about the team’s depleted numbers at full-back, Tuchel added: “Naturally of course, we have another injury in the position.
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OPINION
“It will be a tight race for Reece James and a tight race for Jarell Quansah but it is our job to find solutions and we will do.”
Djed Spence is currently England’s first-choice right-back having now featured in each of their three games at the tournament. Spence impressed from the bench in the 4-2 win over Croatia in Dallas and then started the 0-0 draw with Ghana in Boston.
The Tottenham defender is appreciated by Tuchel for his versatility as he can also operate as a left-back. Chelsea’s Trevoh Chalobah and Aston Villa centre-back Ezri Konsa can both also play at right-back, if required.
View 2 ImagesJarell Quansah has given Thomas Tuchel another headache(Image: Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
James’ tournament is not necessarily over yet either. He has stayed in Kansas City to work on his recovery and is following a special individual training programme.
Speaking ahead of the game, Tuchel defended his decision to place his faith in James, who has missed 14 matches at club level due to injuries this season.
He explained: “No-one could see that coming. Reece was in good shape and felt very good, so it’s a bit unlucky but Ezri Konsa played in the position for us on a high level. We have still no problem.”
England are now set to face DR Congo in Atlanta in the Round of 32.
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