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Sports June 25, 2026

England Receives Positive Injury Update Ahead of Crucial World Cup Match Against Panama

England Receives Positive Injury Update Ahead of Crucial World Cup Match Against Panama

Thomas Tuchel is facing a few challenges as he prepares England's final group game, despite the team remaining in top position to qualify for the knockout stages.

The draw with Ghana sparked concerns for Declan Rice, who was spotted with heavy strapping on his left calf and a noticeable limp after playing the full 90 minutes. However, despite those injuries, Rice remains fit to start England's final group game against Panama.

Tuchel may still opt to rest Rice, though, with Kobbie Mainoo potentially in line for his first minutes of the tournament. Meanwhile, Reece James is a doubt for the final game, complaining of a tight hamstring and unlikely to be risked given his chequered injury past.

England World Cup 2026 Media Activity

Ezri Konsa, Djed Spence, and Jarell Quansah could all deputise at right-back for the Chelsea captain, who will likely sit out the game. Bukayo Saka will be pushing for his first start of the tournament as he continues to work his way back up to full fitness after problems with his Achilles at the end of the season.

Tuchel had previously earmarked the game against Panama for Saka's first start, saying he seems to be more and more ready and will hopefully push for a spot in the lineup. Saka has been working hard to regain his fitness and needs just a few more training sessions before being ready for the game.

Former Arsenal midfielder Patrick Vieira has urged Tuchel to start Saka in place of his club teammate Noni Madueke, citing Saka's ability to bring a different dynamic to the team. Vieira is not worried about England's performance, but believes that Saka could be a key factor in their success.

England World Cup 2026 Training & Media Activity England v Ghana: Group L - FIFA World Cup 2026

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