With Quansah and James sidelined, Djed Spence has emerged as the most likely candidate to hold down the right-back slot for the foreseeable future. The Tottenham man has already featured in all three group games, showing the versatility that Tuchel values so highly. However, with Spence also capable of covering the left-hand side, the manager may be forced to look at alternative configurations involving Chalobah or Konsa.
Despite the mounting injury list, which also saw minor scare for Declan Rice earlier in the week, the mood in the England camp remains focused. Having topped Group L, a date with DR Congo awaits. Tuchel’s ability to find solutions in a depleted defensive unit will now be the ultimate test of England’s credentials as they dream of World Cup glory on American soil.
