England defender Reece James has returned to training and is a potential option for manager Thomas Tuchel in Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final against Norway. James, 26, missed the last three matches due to a hamstring injury and was absent from the squad's training session in Kansas City on Wednesday.
Sources indicate that James participated in Thursday's session, and he is expected to be included in the matchday squad for the game in Miami. His availability for the fixture is contingent on him experiencing no adverse reaction during the team's final practice. This development is positive news for Tuchel, particularly with the team facing defensive gaps.
England is already without right-back Jarell Quansah, who is serving a two-game suspension following his red card against Mexico. Additionally, Tino Livramento was ruled out of the tournament before it began due to a calf injury. Djed Spence had been a likely candidate to fill the right-back position for the quarter-final after recovering from a minor knock, but James's recovery now adds another option to be monitored.
Beyond James, midfielder Declan Rice is anticipated to be available for the match against Norway, despite ongoing management of hamstring and back pain. Defender Marc Guehi is also dealing with some muscle fatigue.