Defender Djed Spence has complained of muscle discomfort ahead of England's World Cup last-16 clash with Mexico. The 25-year-old started in the round of 16 win against Democratic Republic of Congo at right-back, but it is unclear whether he will be able to feature at the Estadio Azteca. The nature of Spence's problem is currently unspecified and it remains to be seen whether he will be able to start Sunday evening's match (Monday 01:00 BST). If Spence is not fit, England manager Thomas Tuchel will have to make further changes to his defence. Right-back Reece James also remains a doubt with a muscle problem, while Jarell Quansah is available after an ankle injury ruled him out of the match against DR Congo. England's injury concerns could also pave the way for a possible lineup change. Spence started at left-back in the goalless group match against Ghana, while he was on the bench in victories against Croatia and Panama. Chelsea captain James has missed the last two games after suffering a muscle problem against Ghana. The 26-year-old has not yet been able to fully train with the group since his injury and was the only one absent from Saturday's session in Mexico City. The Football Association told BBC Sport that James is following an individual program away from the training pitch. Tuchel also told the media on Saturday that the player would need a last-minute assessment before deciding whether he would be fit to sit on the bench against Mexico. Following Quansah's injury, the German admitted he was concerned about England's right-back crisis ahead of the match against DR Congo. Newcastle right-back Tino Livramento was forced to leave the team with a calf problem before the start of the World Cup campaign, with Tuchel opting to call up Chelsea centre-back Trevoh Chalobah instead of a replacement right-back in Real Madrid's Trent Alexander-Arnold. Tuchel's only other option at right-back is Ezri Konsa, who has started all four of England's matches so far at centre-back.
