Reece James out for England's next couple of games with hamstring injury

Reece James has been ruled out with a hamstring injury and will miss at least the next two World Cup games for England.

The Chelsea full-back has a history of problems with his hamstring and did not train with the squad in Kansas City on Friday before their trip to New York.

James will miss out against Panama and England's first knockout tie, according to the Guardian.

Chelsea's captain becomes the second name to pick up an injury during the England camp, with Tino Livramento being ruled out of the squad entirely before the World Cup began with a calf injury.

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Thomas Tuchel has several alternatives available with James' injury.

Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarell Quansah is capable of filling in at right-back, while Djed Spence could also be handed an opportunity after impressing during his appearances for Tottenham last season.

Nico O'Reilly, who struck the crossbar after coming off the bench against Ghana, is another option at left-back if Tuchel decides to reshuffle his defensive line.

Declan Rice returned to England training after concerns were raised that he had picked up a knock.

The Arsenal midfielder was seen wearing strapping on his left calf after the Ghana match and is believed to have suffered a dead leg during the contest.

The 27-year-old has endured a gruelling campaign, with the draw in Boston representing his 64th appearance of the season for club and country.

Despite playing through discomfort against Ghana, Rice is keen to play if Tuchel decides to use him.

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Nevertheless, the England boss could opt to rotate his midfield regardless, with qualification for the knockout rounds still within reach.

Rice also picked up a yellow card against Ghana, meaning another booking against Panama would trigger a suspension for England's opening knockout fixture should they progress.

That disciplinary situation may encourage Tuchel to preserve one of his most influential players ahead of the latter stages of the tournament, with Kobbie Mainoo potentially in line to feature.

Mainoo flourished under Michael Carrick last season at Manchester United, with the youngster previously on the fringes of the action during Ruben Amorim's time in charge.

England remain top of Group L despite failing to overcome Ghana and know victory over Panama would guarantee first place.

The Three Lions play their third and final group game tomorrow at 10pm.

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