Djed Spence has complained of a muscular niggle before England's last-16 World Cup meeting with Mexico, deepening Thomas Tuchel's defensive concerns at the iconic Azteca Stadium.
The 25-year-old Tottenham defender started the previous round's victory over DR Congo at right-back, but his unspecified issue has cast doubt over his availability for Sunday night's clash (1am BST, BBC One). If Spence is ruled out, Tuchel will have to make further changes to a backline already stretched by Reece James's hamstring doubt. One bright spot: Jarell Quansah is fit again after missing the DR Congo tie with an ankle injury sustained against Panama.
“Djed Spence is a doubt for England's World Cup last-16 tie against Mexico due to a muscular problem, adding to right-back concerns.”
England return to the Azteca for the first time in 40 years, stepping into a cauldron that sits 7,200 feet above sea level. The altitude is not the only threat – storms with lightning, thunder and heavy rain could disrupt the knockout showdown, and FIFA have a plan in place if the match faces further disruption.
Tuchel may also consider a formation change to compensate for the right-back crisis. The decision on Spence's fitness will be made before the team sheets are finalised at the stadium that hosted Diego Maradona's infamous 'Hand of God' goal against England in 1986.