Reece James sits out England training as he emerges as major doubt for Panama clash

Reece James is set to miss England’s final World Cup group stage fixture against Panama, having sat out training on the eve of the match . The 26-year-old, who played the entirety of England’s 4-2 victory over Croatia and the subsequent goalless draw with Ghana, is dealing with a hamstring issue. He was conspicuously absent from Friday’s session and is not expected to be risked as Thomas Tuchel’s men aim to wrap up top spot in Group L. This setback follows the earlier withdrawal of natural back-up Tino Livramento due to a calf injury. Livramento was subsequently replaced in the squad by Chelsea’s Trevoh Chalobah. The Football Association confirmed the Chelsea captain is "following his own programme”. James was the only squad member not to train. Declan Rice was able to participate in training (PA) If James misses out, this could see Djed Spence switched over to right-back, with Nico O’Reilly likely to return at left-back. Tuchel has also earmarked Jarell Quansah as someone who can cover either full-back position, and he could come into the reckoning. But James’s likely absence is an unwanted problem for England, with the knockout stages just around the corner. Meanwhile, Declan Rice participated in training after a recent assessment having been spotted with a bandaged calf after England’s draw with Ghana, and Arsenal team-mate Bukayo Saka is pushing for a start following an Achilles problem. England are all but assured of a knockout place but must equal or better Ghana’s result to top the group. Tuchel may be pondering a number of changes after Tuesday’s disappointing display against Ghana. Marcus Rashford could be in line to replace Anthony Gordon on the left wing, while Kobbie Mainoo is an option in midfield if Tuchel opts not to risk Rice. John Stones started England’s win against Croatia but was dropped to the bench for the Ghana stalemate. He could be in Tuchel’s thoughts for Saturday’s match, despite Ezri Konsa and Marc Guehi managing to ensure that England kept a clean sheet against Ghana. England are currently top of their group on four points alongside Ghana but with a superior goal difference, while Croatia are a further point behind.