ENGLAND will be without two players for the World Cup last-32 clash with DR Congo.
Three Lions manager Thomas Tuchel confirmed the stars were not quite ready for Wednesday’s clash.
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Thomas Tuchel confirmed two players will miss the game against DR Congo Credit: Alamy
Jarell Quansah came off injured against Panama Credit: Getty
Reece James missed Saturday’s game altogether through injury Credit: Splash
England face their African opponents on Wednesday afternoon in Atlanta, Georgia, for a place in the last-16.
And they’ll have to do it without both Reece James and Jarell Quansah in defence.
Tuchel said: “They’re getting closer and closer – I saw both of them on the pitch.
“Jarell is a little bit ahead of Reecey, but the race was close to make it in a match squad this time.
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“We need to make sure we have more matches, that is the focus and they will be available very soon.”
Quansah started at right-back in Saturday’s 2-0 win over Panama but came off with a twisted ankle.
James missed the game altogether after picking up a hamstring injury in the 0-0 draw with Ghana.
England already lost Tino Livramento on the eve of the tournament to injury with Trevoh Chalobah called up in his place.
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And the latest injury will be a huge setback for Tuchel’s defensive plans.
Djed Spence is the likely candidate to start at right-back on Wednesday.
Declan Rice is set to return in midfield after being rested in the win over Panama due to his risk of picking up another yellow card and a suspension.
And his Arsenal team-mate Bukayo Saka is also fit, Tuchel confirmed.
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