Xtratime Web Desk

England head coach Thomas Tuchel has admitted he is increasingly concerned about his side's right-back situation after another injury setback ahead of the FIFA World Cup knockout stage.

England secured their place in the Round of 32 with a 2-0 victory over Panama at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Saturday. Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane were on target as the Three Lions booked a knockout clash against DR Congo, scheduled for Wednesday in Atlanta.

Despite the comfortable result, England's defensive injury concerns have deepened.

First-choice right-back Reece James has been sidelined with a hamstring injury suffered during the match against Ghana and did not travel with the squad for the Panama fixture.

His replacement, Jarell Quansah, was forced off in the second half after suffering an ankle injury, casting doubt over his availability for the upcoming knockout encounter.

Speaking after the match, Tuchel revealed that Quansah had sustained what appeared to be a routine ankle sprain.

"It is a typical ankle sprain," Tuchel said. "He is in quite a bit of pain. Jarell told us he had a similar injury before and recovered within a few days. At the moment, his ankle is being treated with ice, compression, and rest."

When asked whether England's growing problems at right-back were becoming a major concern, Tuchel acknowledged the issue with a smile.

"Of course I'm worried," he said. "We've now had another player injured in the same position."

The England boss added that the medical staff will do everything possible to get both James and Quansah fit in time.

"We will do everything we can to bring Reece James back. It's a race against time for him. Now we're facing the same situation with Jarell Quansah. Naturally, I'm concerned about both of them, but it's our job to find solutions, and we will work on that over the next four days."

England's options at right-back have already been limited following Tino Livramento's withdrawal from the tournament earlier due to a calf injury, leaving Tuchel with even fewer alternatives in the position.

Reflecting on the victory over Panama, Tuchel admitted the scoreline did not fully reflect the challenge his side faced.

"It was a very difficult match," he said. "Everyone could see how physical the game was. Panama had conceded very few chances in their first two matches. Against Ghana, they only allowed a late counter-attacking goal, and Croatia scored from just two shots on target."

"We scored twice and created several other good opportunities. We knew it would be a difficult game because they would defend deep as the underdogs and look to hit us on the counterattack. As a coach, I know how much work it takes to win matches like this."

Tuchel concluded by insisting that England will benefit from the experience as they prepare for the knockout rounds.

"It's perfectly normal for matches like this to be difficult," he said. "There's no problem with that. In fact, experiences like these will make us stronger for the next game. Right now, my full focus is on the knockout match against DR Congo."