England will assess centre-back Marc Guehi on Friday to determine whether he can face Norway in Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final after picking up a hamstring strain in the 3-2 win over Mexico. The fitness of several key players will shape Thomas Tuchel’s selection as England prepare to meet Erling Haaland’s Norway.
Guehi was initially thought to have muscular fatigue but is now understood to have a hamstring strain. He remains optimistic and keen to prove his fitness, but if he cannot train with the squad on Friday his inclusion against Norway will be in serious doubt.
Current injury updates
Marc Guehi
- Issue: Hamstring strain sustained during the last-16 win over Mexico.
- Status: Under assessment on Friday. Optimistic but needs to train to be considered. If he misses Friday’s session, Tuchel is unlikely to risk him against a potent Norway attack.
Reece James
- Issue: Returned to full training on Thursday after a hamstring problem.
- Status: Did not complete the entire session but is expected to be available if he feels no ill effects from the training.
Declan Rice
- Issue: Missed a second straight day due to a sickness bug, which exacerbated an existing neural issue affecting his hamstring and lower back.
- Status: Not yet training; England staff have taken steps to prevent the illness spreading through the squad.
Defensive alternatives and squad depth
Centre-back options
- If Guehi is unavailable, Tuchel can call on John Stones, Dan Burn and Trevoh Chalobah to start at centre-back. Ezri Konsa is another versatile option who can cover wide defensive roles.
Right-back options
- James’ return is a timely boost given earlier absences: Jarell Quansah is serving a two-match ban after his red card, Tino Livramento has been out with a calf injury, and Djed Spence is one of the few natural right-backs available. Konsa has previously filled in at right wing-back and praised Stones’s support during the Mexico game.
Tactical implications
- Facing seven-goal Erling Haaland, Tuchel must weigh fitness risks carefully. A fit, mobile backline will be crucial to cope with Norway’s direct threat and aerial presence. Any late changes depending on Friday’s assessments could alter England’s defensive shape.
