FIFA World Cup: England right-backs Jarell Quansah, Reece James out of DR Congo game

Neither player trained on Tuesday, leaving manager Thomas Tuchel to reshuffle his defensive options ahead of the knockout fixture.

Reece James had initially suffered a hamstring injury during England's second group match, a 0-0 draw with Ghana, and although Tuchel had previously hinted at a possible return, he has now confirmed the defender will not be involved. James had been expected to play a key role but has not featured since that setback.

Jarell Quansah, who plays for Bayer Leverkusen, also misses out after twisting his ankle in Saturday's 2-0 win over Panama.

That match marked his World Cup debut, where he had stepped into the starting XI in place of James before being replaced himself by Djed Spence during the game.

"They are getting close," Tuchel said. "In the nature of their injury, Jarell is a little bit ahead of Reece.

"But the race was close even to make it into the match squad this time, so we need to make sure that we have more matches.

"That is the main focus, and then they will be available very soon."

Tuchel must now decide whether to deploy Djed Spence at right-back or shift Ezri Konsa out of central defence. Konsa has become one of Tuchel's most reliable selections since his appointment in January 2025.

England's full-back shortage has intensified scrutiny of squad planning, particularly after Tino Livramento withdrew on the eve of the tournament with a calf issue and Trent Alexander-Arnold's omission following limited involvement under Tuchel. Trevoh Chalobah was later called up as defensive cover.