England's problems with the right-back position at the 2026 World Cup

 After winning the match against Panama (2-0), which ensured England won the group, injuries to the right back became the main topic in the English media. Thomas Tuchel was initially not worried about the health of his players, but the situation changed after the last match of the group stage. "Jarell Quansah has a classic ankle sprain," Tuchel said about the player's injury against Panama. "He claims he has had similar injuries before and it's only a matter of days. He keeps his leg up and in the ice." Earlier, when Tuchel was asked about Trent Alexander-Arnold's absence, the England coach replied firmly. Now he admits that he has problems with filling the right defense position. "Of course, I'm worried about the situation at right back, we have another injury there," admitted the German coach. "It will be an exciting fight for James and Quansah, but our job is to find solutions and we will definitely find them." In the night match against Panama, Quansah was replaced by Djed Spence, who is naturally a right-footed left-back. Another option for Tuchel is Ezri Konsa, but he has played at center back in every World Cup match so far. Meanwhile, criticism of England's game is growing after difficult matches against Ghana (0-0) and Panama. Gary Neville described the latest performance as "far from ideal" and Roy Keane suggested that Tuchel still has "no idea" what his best XI looks like, but the coach replies that the tournament is just starting. "We are building our team atmosphere and self-confidence. We will play better with each important match." England will face DR Congo in the next round in the round of 16. --- ## Related Articles 1. [World Cup 2026](https://azkalsgoal.com/fil/news/elliot-anderson-malapit-sa-116m-lipat-sa-man-city-inaasahang-maisasara-bago-huling-32-ng-world-cup-tuchel) 2. [World Cup 2026](https://oranjenet.live/nl/news/wk-2026-zuid-afrika-als-nummer-twee-door-canada-wacht-in-ronde-van-32-in-los-angeles)