Reece James has emerged as a major doubt for England's World Cup last-16 tie against Mexico after missing the final training session, but there is a timely boost with Jarell Quansah returning to fitness.
James Continues Individual Programme
The Chelsea right-back has not featured for England since suffering a hamstring injury in the closing stages of the goalless draw with Ghana. He has missed the subsequent two matches and is yet to train fully with the squad, according to the Football Association.
On the eve of Monday's knockout fixture at the Azteca Stadium, James was the only absentee from the group session, instead following an individual rehabilitation programme away from the training field. Manager Thomas Tuchel now faces a pivotal decision over whether to risk the 26-year-old, or continue with alternative options at right-back.
Quansah Return Eases Defensive Concerns
In brighter news, Jarell Quansah has resumed full training and will be available for selection. The Liverpool defender, who can operate at centre-back or full-back, suffered a hamstring problem during the draw with Panama but is now back in contention.
His recovery is particularly timely given the uncertainty over James. In England's most recent outing against DR Congo, Djed Spence started at right-back before Declan Rice – himself managing a minor hamstring issue – was forced to fill in. Rice is expected to be fit for the Mexico match, but Quansah's versatility provides another much-needed option.
How to Watch England vs Mexico
The Round of 16 tie takes place at Mexico City's iconic Azteca Stadium on Monday evening, local time, which corresponds to a 01:00 BST kick-off in the early hours of Tuesday morning for UK viewers. The match will be broadcast live on BBC One, with coverage also available on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website. ITV is also showing the game as part of the UK's shared World Cup rights.
For fans outside the UK, official World Cup broadcasters vary by territory. Check your local listings for the most accurate information. In many regions, the game will be shown on networks such as Fox Sports (USA), TSN (Canada), and Optus Sport (Australia). If a specific territory is not confirmed, it is advisable to refer to the FIFA World Cup 2026 broadcast guide.
Key Takeaways
- Reece James is a major doubt after missing England's final training session due to a hamstring injury.
- Jarell Quansah has returned to full fitness and is available for selection, easing right-back concerns.
- Declan Rice is expected to be fit despite nursing a hamstring issue, providing midfield stability.
- England's last-16 tie against Mexico kicks off at 01:00 BST and will be shown live on BBC One and ITV.
- Manager Thomas Tuchel has defensive options but may be forced into a reshuffle if James is ruled out.
Quick Facts
Fixture: Mexico vs England, World Cup Round of 16
Date/Time: Monday, July 6 (01:00 BST Tuesday)
Venue: Azteca Stadium, Mexico City
UK TV: BBC One, ITV, BBC iPlayer
Injury Concern: Reece James (hamstring)
Returning Player: Jarell Quansah (hamstring, now fit)
Source: BBC Sport