Spence Complains of Muscular Niggle
Djed Spence has handed England a fresh injury scare ahead of their World Cup 2026 last-16 tie against Mexico, complaining of a muscular niggle that leaves his involvement at the Azteca Stadium in serious doubt.
The 25-year-old Tottenham defender, who started at right-back in the last-32 victory over DR Congo, reported discomfort following England's most recent training session. The exact nature of the issue remains unspecified, but Thomas Tuchel now faces a race against time to determine if Spence can feature on Sunday night.
Spence has been a versatile option for Tuchel throughout the tournament, also appearing at left-back in the goalless group-stage draw with Ghana and coming off the bench against Croatia and Panama. His potential absence compounds an already worrying situation in the full-back positions.
Right-Back Injury Crisis Deepens
England's defensive troubles extend far beyond Spence. Reece James remains a significant doubt after sustaining a hamstring injury late in the Ghana match. The Chelsea captain has missed the last two games and has yet to return to full training, following an individual programme away from the squad.
“Reece will need a late assessment before we can decide if he is fit enough even for the substitutes’ bench,” Tuchel admitted on Saturday.
There is some positive news in the form of Jarell Quansah, who is available again after recovering from an ankle injury suffered in the group-stage win over Panama. Quansah’s return offers a potential solution at right-back, though he is primarily a centre-back by trade.
What Are Tuchel’s Options?
The crisis at right-back has been exacerbated by the pre-tournament loss of Tino Livramento with a calf issue. Tuchel opted to call up centre-back Trevoh Chalobah rather than a recognised right-back replacement, leaving him short of natural options. Trent Alexander-Arnold of Real Madrid was overlooked despite his availability.
If Spence and James are both ruled out, Tuchel may be forced to deploy Ezri Konsa at right-back. Konsa has started all four England matches so far at centre-back, but his versatility could be vital. Alternatively, Tuchel could switch to a back three, a system he has used in the past, to mitigate the lack of width.
“After Quansah’s injury, I was worried about our right-back situation before the DR Congo game. Now it’s even more complicated,” the German said.
The match will be broadcast live in the UK on the BBC and ITV, with coverage starting at midnight BST. For other territories, official broadcaster details remain unconfirmed.
Key Takeaways
- Djed Spence’s muscular niggle makes him a major doubt for England’s last-16 clash with Mexico.
- Reece James is also unlikely to feature as he continues to recover from a hamstring injury.
- Jarell Quansah’s return offers some relief, but Thomas Tuchel may have to improvise at right-back.
- England could field Ezri Konsa out of position or switch to a back three to solve the crisis.
Quick Facts
Match: England vs Mexico – World Cup 2026 last 16
Kick-off: Monday, 01:00 BST (Sunday night local time)
Venue: Azteca Stadium, Mexico City
UK TV: BBC and ITV
England’s right-back doubts: Djed Spence (muscle), Reece James (hamstring)
Available options: Jarell Quansah, Ezri Konsa (could shift from centre-back)