Mexico vs England: England’s Djed Spence complains of muscle issue before last-16 World Cup tie

Spence started at left-back for England’s goalless group-stage draw with Ghana, while he was a substitute in the victories over Croatia and Panama.

Chelsea captain James has missed the past two matches after suffering a hamstring problem late on against Ghana.

The 26-year-old is yet to train fully with the squad since the injury and was the only player absent for Saturday’s session in Mexico City.

The Football Association told BBC Sport James was following his own individual programme away from the training field.

Tuchel also told the media on Saturday that the player would need a late assessment before deciding if he was fit enough for the substitutes bench against Mexico.

Following Quansah’s injury, the German admitted he was worried about England’s right-back crisis before the DR Congo match.

Newcastle right-back Tino Livramento was forced to leave the squad with a calf issue before the start of the World Cup campaign, with Tuchel opting to call-up Chelsea centre-back Trevoh Chalobah rather than a replacement right-back such as Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Tuchel’s only other option at right-back is Ezri Konsa, who has started all four of England’s matches so far at centre-back.