Reece James and Declan Rice were both absent from England's penultimate training session on Thursday, casting doubt over their availability for Saturday's decisive World Cup group game against Panama.
The 26-year-old right-back suffered a hamstring issue during the goalless draw with Ghana on Tuesday and did not train with his teammates at England's base in Kansas City. James, a key member of Thomas Tuchel's starting XI, has started both World Cup matches so far. His absence raises questions over whether the Chelsea defender will be fit enough to start or even feature from the bench at New York New Jersey Stadium.
“Reece James and Declan Rice miss England training with injury concerns before World Cup clash with Panama.”
Declan Rice also missed the session after leaving Boston Stadium with strapping on his left calf following the Ghana game. However, sources indicate the 27-year-old midfielder's fitness is less of a concern. Tuchel must also weigh up the risk of suspension: Rice was booked against Ghana and would miss the round of 32 if he receives another yellow card against Panama.
England head into the final Group L fixture level on points with Ghana but ahead by virtue of a single goal, and one point clear of Croatia after a 4-2 victory over them in the opening match. Saturday's result will determine whether the Three Lions progress as group winners or face a trickier knockout path.
Tuchel now faces anxious decisions on two of his most influential players with a place in the last 32 hanging in the balance.