England face a fitness test with both Declan Rice and Reece James requiring medical assessment before their final FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage fixture against Panama on Saturday.

Rice, 27, left Boston Stadium on crutches following England's goalless draw with Ghana on Tuesday, heavy strapping visible on his left calf. While sources close to the squad have played down concerns about a long-term absence, the Arsenal midfielder needs rest and further evaluation before manager Thomas Tuchel can clear him to face Panama in New Jersey.

It is also worth noting that Rice was substituted during England's earlier group game against Croatia, where he had been managing nerve pain in a hamstring complaint.

James also under watch

James, 26, completed all 90 minutes against Ghana but will be examined by the medical staff over the coming 24 hours. The Chelsea captain carries a well-documented injury history, and the coaching staff intend to monitor his workload closely as the tournament progresses.

Tuchel and his backroom team now face a delicate balancing act — needing both players fit and available for a decisive group clash while avoiding any risk of aggravating existing issues with the knockout rounds potentially on the horizon.