Thomas Tuchel defends controversial England decision after Reece James injury blow before Panama game

Thomas Tuchel has stood by his decision to take a limited number of specialist full-backs to the World Cup after confirming Reece James will miss England's final Group L clash against Panama.

The Chelsea defender has remained at England's training base in Kansas City after picking up a hamstring problem following Tuesday's frustrating 0-0 draw with Ghana.

James complained of discomfort after the match and has not trained over the past two days, ruling him out of Saturday night's meeting in New Jersey.

England have already guaranteed their place in the knockout stages and know victory over Panama will secure top spot in the group.

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Tuchel is hopeful James could still feature later in the competition, although concerns remain over whether the 26-year-old will be ready for England's opening knockout fixture next week.

The setback has inevitably reignited questions over Tuchel's squad planning.

James and Tino Livramento both travelled to North America despite long-standing injury records, while Djed Spence was the only other recognised full-back selected.

Livramento has already returned home with a calf injury, leaving England short of natural options on either flank.

Nico O'Reilly is capable of operating at left-back after featuring there for Manchester City last season, though the 21-year-old developed through the academy as a midfielder.

Dan Burn has also filled in on the left in the past, while Jarell Quansah and Ezri Konsa are among the players capable of providing cover on the right-hand side.

Despite the criticism, Tuchel remains convinced he made the correct call when naming his squad.

"Yes, I am," he said when asked whether he was satisfied with his choices at right-back.

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"I selected the team, so I'm very happy with everything with the characteristic of the players and strengths that they give us.

"We would love to have every single key player, we would love to have them available, it's not available – we find solutions, it's what we do.

"It's a tournament, we move on."

Tuchel also moved to ease fears surrounding James' condition, insisting the issue is not considered serious.

"It's a minor hamstring issue," the England manager explained.

"He's not been able to train the last two days.

"He's now on an accelerated rehabilitation programme and we take it game by game, but we strongly believe that he will be available during the tournament."

There was more encouraging news elsewhere for England.

Bukayo Saka is fit enough to start for the first time in the competition after being carefully managed because of a long-standing Achilles tendinitis problem.

Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson are also expected to feature despite missing Thursday's training session.

Rice had been dealing with a calf complaint, while Anderson was troubled by a glute issue, but both returned to training on Friday.

With qualification already secured and several players carrying knocks, Tuchel is expected to rotate his side against Panama.

How the Three Lions fare remains to be seen.

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