England sweat over injuries ahead of DR Congo World Cup clash after Ghana draw blow

England midfielder Declan Rice is expected to be fit to start Wednesday's FIFA World Cup last-32 clash against DR Congo in Atlanta, having been rested for the 2-0 group stage victory over Panama following a calf injury sustained during last Tuesday's goalless draw with the Black Stars in Ghana's final group match.

Rice, 27, was unable to complete full training sessions in the build-up to the Panama fixture, but returned for the team's final session before they travelled to New Jersey. Arsenal's influential central midfielder is now expected to reclaim his place in Thomas Tuchel's starting line-up for the knockout round opener.

However, Tuchel faces a significant problem at right-back ahead of the DR Congo tie. Chelsea's Reece James, who limped off during the match against Ghana with a hamstring injury, is unlikely to feature on Wednesday, with the England manager suggesting his return to action will come later in the tournament if he recovers in time.

Jarell Quansah, who stepped in for James at right-back against Panama, is also a major doubt after picking up an ankle injury. England's medical team will assess the Bayer Leverkusen defender over the coming 48 hours, though Tuchel has conceded it will be "very tight" for Quansah to prove his fitness before the knockout match.

The right-back crisis is made worse by the fact that Tino Livramento was ruled out of the tournament entirely before it even began due to a calf problem. Djed Spence, who came on for Quansah against Panama, is likely to fill the position against DR Congo, though Tuchel may also consider deploying centre-back Ezri Konsa there as an alternative option.