England face a mounting injury problem at right-back ahead of their match against DR Congo, with both Reece James and Jarell Quansah serious doubts for the fixture. Quansah twisted his ankle during England’s 2-0 win over Panama in their final group game, forcing him off and bringing Djed Spence on as his replacement. James, meanwhile, has yet to resume training since picking up his own injury, making his involvement look doubtful despite manager Thomas Tuchel previously suggesting he could be in contention.
The situation has drawn scrutiny over Tuchel’s squad selection, with questions being raised about whether the group is properly balanced at full-back. Tuchel has clarified that Trevoh Chalobah was brought in as a central defensive option, leaving Quansah and Spence as the designated cover for the full-back areas.
Spence has stepped in during the tournament, featuring at left-back for the final 10 minutes of the opening group win over Croatia — a position he also played for Tottenham for much of last season. The 25-year-old then started the draw with Ghana at left-back before shifting to right-back in the 63rd minute to replace Quansah against Panama. Tuchel could call on him again at right-back, or turn to Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa instead.
Konsa has established himself as one of Tuchel’s most trusted players since the German took charge in January 2025. The 28-year-old made his England debut at right-back against Brazil in 2024, a performance that earned praise from then-manager Gareth Southgate for his handling of Vinicius Jr.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, meanwhile, has slipped down the England pecking order. The Real Madrid defender has only played once under Tuchel due to injury and was not selected for squads in the build-up to the tournament.
Image credit: BBC Sport / BBC Sport
