England faces a crucial World Cup group game against Panama on Saturday, with the team's medical staff assessing the fitness of midfielders Reece James and Declan Rice. Both players sustained concerns during recent matches.
Declan Rice, 27, was seen limping off the field after England's draw against Ghana, with visible strapping on his left calf. While sources suggest the injury is not expected to have long-term implications for his World Cup participation, it necessitates assessment and rest. Rice had also been managing a sore hamstring, experiencing nerve pain that led to his substitution in a prior game against Croatia.
Reece James, 26, will also undergo evaluation. He completed the full match against Ghana, but will be monitored by medics over the next 24 hours. The Chelsea captain has a history of injuries, and his workload is being managed closely by the England coaching staff, led by manager Thomas Tuchel. Decisions on their availability for the Panama fixture will depend on these assessments, with the team weighing the risks of playing injured players.