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England face fresh injury setback as Thomas Tuchel forced into early substitution
Rohan Mehta | June 28, 2026 2:34 PM CST

England have encountered a new concern following their crucial victory over Panama, as Jarell Quansah was forced to leave the field with an ankle injury.

Quansah earned a spot in England’s starting eleven on Saturday after coach Thomas Tuchel made five changes from the goalless draw against Ghana.

One of those changes was necessitated by Reece James’s absence, who was ruled out of the final Group L fixture due to a hamstring issue. James is currently awaiting scan results after sustaining the injury during the 0-0 draw with Ghana.

During the match, Quansah received medical attention on the pitch from England’s staff before getting back to his feet. However, he was soon substituted for Djed Spence.

Tuchel later provided an update on the Bayer Leverkusen defender, confirming that Quansah is now doubtful for England’s round of 32 clash against their next opponents in Atlanta on July 1.

“It’s a classic ankle twist and he’s in pain,” Tuchel said in his post-match press conference. “He mentioned that he’s had this before, and it’s a matter of days. Right now, his leg is elevated and on ice.”

Quansah’s setback, combined with James’s likely absence, leaves England short of options at right-back, with Djed Spence as the only natural alternative in that position.

“Naturally, we’ve picked up another injury in the same position,” Tuchel acknowledged. “It will be a close call for both Reece James and Jarell Quansah, but our responsibility is to find solutions, and we will.”

Bukayo Saka started the match but was substituted shortly after delivering the assist for Jude Bellingham’s opener against Panama. Declan Rice, meanwhile, remained an unused substitute.

“There’s no issue with Bukayo,” Tuchel added. “As for Declan, it was a good opportunity to rest him completely and avoid the risk of a second yellow card, which benefits us greatly.”


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