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, with Djed Spence a doubt after reporting a muscular problem.

The 25-year-old, who impressed at right-back in the last-32 win over DR Congo, has complained of a niggle that has yet to be fully diagnosed. His condition will be monitored closely before Sunday night’s kick-off at the Azteca Stadium (Monday, 01:00 BST), but his place in the starting XI is now far from guaranteed.

Spence’s potential absence piles more pressure on Thomas Tuchel’s already stretched back line. The England head coach has been juggling options throughout the tournament, and this latest concern could force another reshuffle in a game that leaves little margin for error.

Reece James is still a doubt with a hamstring issue, leaving Tuchel short of natural right-backs. The Chelsea defender has been working to return, but England’s staff remain cautious, aware that one wrong step could end his tournament.

There is at least one boost. Jarell Quansah is back in contention after an ankle injury ruled him out of the DR Congo tie, having been picked up in the group-stage win over Panama. His availability hands Tuchel a degree of flexibility, whether as part of a back four or on the right of a back three.

All of this feeds into a bigger tactical question. With Spence uncertain and James struggling, England’s injury problems may push Tuchel towards a change of shape rather than a like-for-like swap. A back three, an asymmetric system, or a more conservative setup in the cauldron of the Azteca – every option now carries extra weight.

On a night when England hoped to focus solely on Mexico, selection at right-back has become one of the most decisive calls of their World Cup so far.