England manager Thomas Tuchel has expressed concerns over the growing right-back crisis in the national team after Jarell Quansah suffered an ankle injury in the 2-0 victory over Panama. Quansah, who usually plays as a centre-back, was forced to come off after just over an hour and is now doubtful for England's last-32 tie in Atlanta on 1 July. This injury adds to the woes of Tuchel, who has already lost one right-back for the tournament, Tino Livramento.
Tuchel described the injury as a 'classic ankle twist' and revealed that Quansah had suffered a similar injury before. Despite the setback, Tuchel remains hopeful that Quansah will not be ruled out for the World Cup, stating that it 'is a matter of days' before he can return to action. The manager praised his goalscorers Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane, who scored crucial goals in the second half of the match.
Kane's goal was his 11th in World Cups, breaking Gary Lineker's England record. Tuchel was delighted for Kane, describing him as a 'fantastic teammate' and 'loved by everyone' in the team. With both Quansah and Reece James doubtful for the upcoming match, Tuchel will need to find a solution to the right-back crisis.