Reece James is unlikely to be available for England's last-16 World Cup match against Mexico, dealing another blow to the team's defense.
The Chelsea captain has been sidelined with a hamstring problem sustained during the 0-0 draw with Ghana on June 23. He missed England's subsequent games against Panama and DR Congo. While there had been hopes he would be fit to start at the Azteca Stadium, it is now understood that James will not participate in the team's final training session, instead undertaking an individual program.
This development suggests James is unlikely to start against Mexico, though his involvement in some capacity remains uncertain. His absence highlights a growing defensive crisis for England at the right-back position during the tournament. His usual replacement, Jarell Quansah, is also unavailable after twisting his ankle against Panama. Furthermore, Tino Livramento was forced to withdraw from the squad before the tournament began due to a calf injury sustained in training.
Djed Spence featured at right-back in the victory over DR Congo. Head coach Thomas Tuchel had indicated that both James and Quansah were nearing a return for that fixture. Declan Rice played an emergency role at right-back late in the DR Congo match but is expected to return to his midfield position.
Tuchel is known to be an admirer of James and will be eager to reintegrate him into the squad when fit. England is scheduled to train at 4 p.m. local time in Mexico City, which is 11 p.m. in the UK.