England manager Thomas Tuchel has come out firmly in support of his full-back selection decisions, even as Reece James was confirmed absent for Saturday's FIFA World Cup 2026 Group L encounter against Panama in New Jersey (22:00 BST).

James, the Chelsea right-back, did not make the trip from England's Kansas City base after complaining of a hamstring problem following Tuesday's goalless draw against Ghana. Tuchel, however, remains optimistic that James retains a chance of featuring in England's potential last-32 match next week.

BBC Sport understands James is a significant doubt for the start of the knockout stages, should England qualify from their group.

Tuchel's full-back options under scrutiny

James' absence compounds a growing selection headache for Tuchel. Tino Livramento has already returned home due to a calf injury, leaving the England manager with a depleted pool of recognised full-backs. Djed Spence, James, and Livramento were the only three genuine full-backs brought to the tournament.

Nico O'Reilly, who featured at left-back for Manchester City last season, is part of the squad — but he developed through the Etihad Stadium ranks as a midfielder. Dan Burn has played at left-back previously yet is widely considered a centre-back. For right-back cover, Tuchel can call upon Spence and central defenders Jarell Quansah and Ezri Konsa.

Despite the mounting pressure, Tuchel remained resolute when asked about his options.