Reece James sat out England training on Thursday, casting doubt on his availability for the Three Lions’ final Group L match against Panama.
The 26-year-old right-back picked up a hamstring problem during Tuesday’s goalless draw with Ghana and missed England’s penultimate session before Saturday’s 22:00 BST kick-off. It is unclear whether the Chelsea defender will be fit to start or feature from the bench at New York New Jersey Stadium.
James has been a mainstay in Thomas Tuchel’s starting XI and has begun both of England’s World Cup games so far.
Declan Rice, who left Boston Stadium after the Ghana match with strapping on his left calf, was also absent from Thursday’s workout in Kansas City. However, sources suggest the 27-year-old midfielder’s issue is less worrying. Tuchel may still think twice about starting Rice, as he is one booking away from a suspension in the round of 32 following a yellow card against Ghana.
England top Group L ahead of Ghana on goal difference and hold a one-point lead over Croatia, whom they defeated 4-2 in their opener.