England face uncertainty over the fitness of right-back Reece James ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 last-16 tie against Mexico on Monday, with kick-off scheduled for 01:00 BST.

James has not featured in England's last two matches after picking up a hamstring injury late in the goalless draw with Ghana. The Chelsea defender has been unable to train fully with the squad since that setback, and was absent from Saturday's session in Mexico City.

There was, however, a welcome boost for manager Thomas Tuchel — Jarrell Quansah has returned to full training and is available for selection. Quansah had sustained a hamstring injury during the draw with Panama, so his recovery significantly eases England's concerns at the back.

The versatile Quansah can operate at centre-back or full-back, offering Tuchel additional defensive flexibility. Djed Spence filled the right-back role in the win over DR Congo, but it was midfielder Declan Rice who ultimately finished that match in the position — underlining how stretched England have been defensively during this tournament.

With James's participation still in doubt, Tuchel will be weighing his options carefully before confirming his starting lineup to face a Mexico side that England must overcome to reach the quarter-finals.