England's preparations for the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup have suffered a major setback after captain Reece James was ruled out through injury. The experienced right-back is reportedly set to miss at least two matches, leaving manager Thomas Tuchel with a difficult selection dilemma ahead of England's upcoming fixtures.
With the injury expected to keep James sidelined for a minimum of two games, there is also a worrying possibility that his World Cup campaign could already be over. If England fail to progress beyond the Round of 32, the Chelsea defender may not feature again in the tournament.
Reece James Injury Further Blow to England Who Already Lost Tino Livramento
The injury to Reece James adds to England's growing frustrations in the right-back department. Newcastle United defender Tino Livramento, who was widely regarded as Tuchel's second-choice option in the position, was unfortunately ruled out just before the tournament began. His absence has left England short of specialist right-backs at a crucial stage of the competition.
Four Players Who Could Replace Reece James
Tuchel now has several alternatives available, although each option presents its own challenges.
Trevoh Chalobah
One of the most natural replacements is Trevoh Chalobah. The versatile defender has previously operated as a right centre-back under Tuchel at club level, making him a familiar option for the German coach.
Chalobah offers defensive solidity and tactical discipline, while his understanding of Tuchel's system could make the transition relatively seamless. However, he lacks the attacking output and crossing ability that James regularly provides.
Djed Spence
Djed Spence is arguably the closest like-for-like replacement in terms of playing style. Blessed with pace and athleticism, the Tottenham Hotspur defender is comfortable pushing high up the pitch and supporting attacks.
Spence's ability to stretch opponents and recover quickly in defensive situations makes him an attractive candidate, especially if Tuchel wants England to maintain their aggressive approach down the right flank.
Jarrel Quansah
Former Liverpool youngster Jarrel Quansah is another possibility despite being primarily used as a centre-back. His composure on the ball and physical presence could allow Tuchel to adopt a more conservative setup.
Deploying Quansah at right-back would likely provide additional defensive protection, particularly against stronger opponents, although it would naturally limit England's attacking threat from wide areas.
Ezri Konsa
Ezri Konsa may be the safest option from a defensive standpoint, having impressed throughout the tournament. However, there is one obvious complication.
Konsa is currently England's first-choice player in the middle of defence and moving him to right-back would require Tuchel to reshuffle another position. While the Aston Villa defender has experience operating on the flank, disrupting a settled central partnership may not be ideal during a World Cup campaign.
England Still Have Enough Quality
Reece James' injury is undoubtedly a huge blow for England, particularly considering Livramento's unfortunate withdrawal shortly before the tournament started. Losing both their preferred and backup right-backs has left Tuchel with an unexpected headache at the worst possible moment.
Nevertheless, England remains one of the strongest squads in the competition. Whether Tuchel turns to Chalobah's familiarity, Spence's attacking energy, Quansah's versatility or Konsa's reliability, the Three Lions still possess enough depth and quality to overcome any opponent on their day and keep their World Cup dream alive.
