England head coach Thomas Tuchel has said that defender Jarell Quansah could be doubtful for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash with DR Congo on Wednesday (July 1) in Atlanta.
Quansah, 23, started against Panama in the final Group L game on Saturday (June 27) in the absence of injured right-back Reece James but twisted his ankle in the second half and had to be subbed off for Djed Spence.
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James didn’t travel to New Jersey for the Panama game after complaining of a hamstring issue following the goalless draw with Ghana. Tuchel said about the setback (as per the BBC):
“No-one could see that coming. Reece was in good shape and felt very good, so it’s a bit unlucky, but Ezri Konsa played in the position for us on a high level. We have still no problem.”
The Three Lions now have a fresh issue at right-back, with Tino Livramento out of the squad due to a calf issue. Tuchel said about Quansah’s ankle injury in the Panama game (as per transfer guru Fabrizio Romano).
“He has suffered a classic ankle twist. He’s had it before. It will be a very tight race for the next game”.
Going back to the match on Saturday evening in New Jersey, second-half goals from Jude Bellingham and captain Harry Kane meant that Tuchel’s side finished top of their group, a point ahead of 2018 finalists Croatia.
“We will get better” – England head coach ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup knockouts
England head coach Thomas Tuchel has said that his team haven’t hit top gear yet as they topped their 2026 FIFA World Cup group to book a Round of 32 meeting with DR Congo in Atlanta.
Following a 4-2 victory over Croatia in their campaign opener, The Three Lions were held to a goalless draw by Ghana before scoring twice in the last 30 minutes to see off Panama on Saturday.
“We know what we need to get better, and we will get better,” Tuchel said (As per ESPN). “There’s no problem in putting the work in and growing into a tournament like this with difficult opponents to overcome. It is important now we keep believing, keep focusing on what we can influence.
“Every game will be a different game. There are so many styles and cultures of football. The most important thing is to not be afraid, be brave, courageous and go step by step. and we are ready for that.”
England are looking to win the FIFA World Cup for the first time since their maiden triumph at home in 1966, having reached the last two European Championships finals.
Edited by Bhargav