England's Defensive Concerns Ahead of World Cup Clash with Mexico

England face a fresh defensive headache on the eve of their World Cup last-16 clash with Mexico after Djed Spence reported a muscular niggle.

The 25-year-old, who impressed at right-back in the last-32 win over DR Congo, has emerged as a doubt for the showdown at the Azteca Stadium. The nature of the Tottenham defender’s issue has not been specified, and his chances of starting on Sunday night (Monday 01:00 BST) remain unclear.

It is the last thing Thomas Tuchel needed.

England are already juggling problems on the right side of their defence. Reece James is still a major doubt as he continues to nurse a hamstring problem, leaving Tuchel short of fully fit, natural options in that role.

The one piece of good news comes in the form of Jarell Quansah. The defender is available again after an ankle injury picked up in the group-stage win over Panama kept him out of the DR Congo tie. His return at least gives Tuchel another body to work with as he reshapes his back line.

If Spence fails to make it, Tuchel will be forced into more changes at the back, with his selection and shape under real scrutiny. England have already had to adapt during this tournament; this latest setback could push the head coach towards a more radical tweak.

Those injury concerns on the flanks might do more than just alter the personnel. They could crack the door open to a full formation change on one of the most intimidating stages in world football.