World Cup 2026: England will assess the fitness of Reece James and Declan Rice
England are ready to assess the fitness of Reece James and Declan Rice ahead of their important World Cup game against Panama following concerns over injuries suffered in previous matches.
The England squad will carry out a fitness assessment on Reece James and Declan Rice ahead of their decisive World Cup group stage game against Panama. Rice, 27, limped out of Boston Stadium after the goalless draw against Ghana on Tuesday with a heavy brace in his left calf. Sources indicate there are no major concerns that the injury could impact his long-term participation here in the United States. However, the situation needs to undergo assessment and rest before a decision is made on his availability for the game against Panama on Saturday, with England manager Thomas Tuchel and his team needing to weigh up the risks of fielding him. The Arsenal midfielder was also substituted in the game against Croatia due to nerve pain in a thigh that he had already been managing. James will also need assessment as England approach Saturday's game in New Jersey. The Chelsea captain completed the match against Ghana but will be examined by doctors within the next 24 hours. James has a history of injuries and his playing load will be closely monitored.
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