In the year 2026 World Cup: Jarrell Quansah and Rhys James miss training as right-back problems mount for England

England right-backs Jarel Quassah and Rhys James have been ruled out of training for Wednesday’s World Cup last 32 match against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Qasah left England’s 2-0 win over Panama in Saturday’s group stage final with a sprained ankle, with DJ Spence replacing the Bayern Munich defender.

The former Liverpool player has been sidelined for the World Cup after Chelsea defender James was ruled out. Muscle injury England’s second group game continued with a 0-0 draw against Ghana.

England manager Thomas Tuchel previously said James could feature in the DRC game, but he has been ruled out of training since the injury.

Injuries at right-back have weighed on Tuchel’s team selection for this tournament, questioning whether the team’s formation is balanced.

On the eve of the first competitive game in England, Newcastle defender Tino Livramento He withdrew from the group With the calf issue, Trevoh Chalobah was called in his place.

Tuchel Chalobah was called up as an option at centre-back, while Kwansa and Spence were called up to cover the full-back positions.

He played the last 10 minutes of Spain’s opening game against Croatia at left-back; This is where he played for Tottenham last season.

The 25-year-old started the game against Ghana at left-back and replaced Kwansa at right-back in the 63rd minute.

Tuchel could once again look to use Spain at right-back or Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa.

Konsa has become Tuchel’s loyal player and regular starter since the German took over in January 2025.

The 28-year-old started playing as a right-back for England in 2024 and former manager Gareth Southgate was impressed with his performance under Vinicius Junior.

Real Madrid defender Trent Alexander-Arnold has been dropped by England’s pecking order. Due to injury, Tuchel only played once and was not selected for the squad in preparation for this tournament.