James doubtful for Mexico match, Quansah fit again
Short overview
Reece James missed England's final training before the World Cup last-16 tie against Mexico due to a hamstring injury, but Jarell Quansah has returned to full training and is available for selection.
Reece James is doubtful for England's World Cup last-16 match against Mexico after missing the team's final training session on Saturday. The Chelsea right-back has been sidelined since suffering a hamstring injury in the closing stages of the goalless draw with Ghana, missing the subsequent matches against Panama and DR Congo.
The 26-year-old defender has not trained fully with the squad since the injury and was the only absent player during Saturday's session in Mexico City. The Football Association confirmed to BBC Sport that James was following an individual rehabilitation program away from the training field.
Late assessment for James
England manager Thomas Tuchel told reporters on Saturday that James would require a late fitness test before a decision could be made on his availability for the substitutes' bench. The match is scheduled for Monday at 01:00 BST at the Azteca Stadium.
Quansah returns to boost defensive options
In more positive news, Jarell Quansah has returned to full training and is fit to face Mexico. The versatile defender, capable of playing at centre-back or full-back, had been out with a hamstring injury sustained in the draw with Panama. His return eases Tuchel's concerns at right-back, where Djed Spence started against DR Congo before midfielder Declan Rice finished the match in that position.
Rice, who has been managing a hamstring issue, is expected to be available for the tie. The Arsenal midfielder's fitness provides additional midfield depth as England prepare for the knockout stage.
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