Double injury scare for England as Reece James & Declan Rice miss training

England's preparations for their final group stage match against Panama have been hit by fitness concerns regarding two key players. Both Reece James and Declan Rice were absent from training at the team's base in Kansas City.

James, the Chelsea captain, is the primary concern for the medical staff after suffering a hamstring issue during the draw with Ghana. Given his history of muscular injuries, the coaching staff is proceeding with caution. His absence would leave the squad short on the right side of the defense, especially with Tino Livramento already ruled out of the tournament.

Midfielder Declan Rice also sat out the session. He had been managing ongoing neural pain in his hamstring and wore heavy strapping on his calf during the previous game. The Arsenal star's absence appears to be a precautionary measure as the team looks toward the knockout stages.

Manager Thomas Tuchel is now considering his options for rotation. While a place in the round of 32 is nearly secured, the German is wary of making too many changes at once. If James and Rice are unable to feature, players such as Ezri Konsa, Nico O’Reilly, or Kobbie Mainoo could step into the starting XI.