England manager Thomas Tuchel has defended his selection of full-backs for the World Cup after confirming Reece James will miss Saturday's Group L clash against Panama.
The Chelsea defender has remained at England's base in Kansas City after sustaining a minor hamstring injury during Tuesday's goalless draw with Ghana.
James was assessed by England's medical staff following the match and has since begun an accelerated rehabilitation programme. While Tuchel remains optimistic the 26-year-old will return later in the tournament, there are concerns over his availability for the start of the knockout stages.
England have already secured qualification for the last 32, regardless of the outcome against Panama.
James' injury, coupled with the calf problem that forced Tino Livramento to return home earlier in the tournament, has prompted questions over Tuchel's decision to include only three recognised full-backs in his 26-man squad.
James, Livramento and Djed Spence were the only specialist full-backs selected. Midfielder Nico O'Reilly, who featured at left-back for Manchester City last season, can also operate in the position, while central defenders Dan Burn, Jarell Quansah and Ezri Konsa provide additional defensive cover.
Despite the injuries, Tuchel insisted he has no regrets over his squad selection.
"Yes, I am," he said when asked whether he was still satisfied with his options at right-back.
"I selected the team, so I'm very happy with everything, with the characteristics of the players and the strengths that they give us.
"We would love to have every single key player available. It's not available, we find solutions. It's what we do. It's a tournament, we move on."
Tuchel described James' injury as a minor setback and expressed confidence that the defender could still feature later in the competition.
"It's a minor hamstring issue. He's not been able to train the last two days," Tuchel said.
"He's now on an accelerated rehabilitation programme and we take it game by game, but we strongly believe that he will be available."
There was more encouraging news elsewhere in the England camp, with Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson all declared available for the match against Panama.
Rice, who had been managing a calf issue, and Anderson, who was recovering from a glute injury, both returned to training on Friday after missing Thursday's session.
Tuchel also confirmed Saka is ready to start after making substitute appearances in England's opening two matches as he continued his recovery from a long-term Achilles tendon problem.
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