Tuchel expects Reece James fit for England's quarter-final against Norway

Reece James is expected to be available for England’s World Cup quarter-final against Norway in Miami on Saturday at 22:00 BST, after a defensive reshuffle left England short on the right side. James is England’s first-choice right-back, and his return would change Tuchel’s selection options against a Norway side whose danger is centred on Erling Haaland.

James has missed England’s last three matches after suffering a hamstring injury against Ghana in the group stage, and his absence became more costly when Jarell Quansah was sent off in Sunday’s 3-2 win over Mexico. Quansah is suspended for the quarter-final, while England had already lost Tino Livramento to injury earlier in the tournament, leaving Tuchel with a narrow pool of right-sided defenders.

James gives England their most natural right-back option. Chelsea’s captain has 26 England caps and offers a level of balance that neither Ezri Konsa nor Djed Spence can yet match in senior international experience. If Tuchel can use James from the start, England can keep a more familiar shape.

Even so, the final call on James’ minutes remains delicate. He was still being monitored after the hamstring problem that kept him out against DR Congo and the other recent matches, and Tuchel will still need to judge whether James is ready for a full high-intensity quarter-final in Miami or only a limited role off the bench.

James was seen moving freely in England’s celebrations after the Mexico win.