World Cup 2026: Thomas Tuchel confirms Djed Spence start as England suffer fresh injury blow before DR Congo clash

England head coach Thomas Tuchel has confirmed another defensive reshuffle ahead of the Three Lions’ World Cup Round of 32 clash against DR Congo after revealing two key injury absences.

England progressed to the knockout stage as winners of Group L with seven points, defeating Croatia and Panama while playing out a goalless draw with Ghana. Their reward is a meeting with a confident DR Congo side that advanced as the best third-placed team, inspired by the goals of Yoane Wissa.

However, Tuchel’s preparations have again been disrupted by fitness concerns in the right-back position.

James and Quansah ruled out

Reece James remains unavailable after failing to recover from the hamstring injury that forced him to miss England’s group-stage victory over Panama.

His replacement, Jarell Quansah, also suffered an injury during that match, leaving Tuchel short of options for the knockout encounter in Atlanta.

The England manager confirmed neither defender will be fit enough to face DR Congo, paving the way for Djed Spence to return to the starting line-up at right-back.

Providing an update on the injured pair, Tuchel indicated both are nearing full fitness but insisted caution remains the priority.

“They are getting close,” Tuchel said.

“In the nature of their injury, Jarell is a little bit ahead of Reece.

“But the race was close even to make it into the match squad this time, so we need to make sure we have more matches. That’s the main focus, and then they will be available very soon.”

Spence handed opportunity

Spence now appears set to make his first World Cup start since England’s opening group match, with Tuchel placing his trust in the Tottenham defender to fill the void left by James and Quansah.

The selection offers England continuity in a position that has been repeatedly disrupted by injuries throughout the tournament, while also providing Spence with a chance to cement his place as the knockout rounds begin.

England will be hoping the defensive adjustment has little impact as they attempt to continue an unbeaten World Cup campaign.

Rice returns as England chase quarter-final place

There was more encouraging news in midfield after Declan Rice successfully came through a late fitness test.

The Arsenal midfielder is expected to return to the starting XI in place of Morgan Rogers, giving Tuchel an experienced presence in the centre of the pitch for one of England’s biggest matches of the tournament so far.

England head into the contest as favourites, but DR Congo have already demonstrated their ability to trouble established nations. Led by Newcastle United forward Yoane Wissa, the African side arrive full of confidence after securing a historic place in the knockout stage.