Kobbie Mainoo is on standby for his first start at the World Cup with Declan Rice an injury concern ahead of England’s final group match against Panama.
Daily Mail Sport understands Thomas Tuchel used Mainoo in midfield in training games ahead of Tuesday’s goalless draw with Ghana.
It is thought the head coach was taking a look at the 21-year-old alongside Elliot Anderson in the likelihood of Rice needing to be rested at some stage during the tournament.
Rice has been managing a hamstring issue since Christmas but he left the Boston Stadium on Tuesday night with heavy strapping on his left calf.
Declan Rice was spotted with heavy strapping on his calf as he left the stadium after England’s draw against Ghana
While the problem is not thought to be serious, the vice-captain was limping and will now be assessed by medical staff. It will likely be that no chances are taken in a game versus Panama that England should win.
Anderson and Reece James will also be checked. The former appeared to take a blow to his back and came off in the 73rd minute. James, meanwhile, received lengthy treatment for a head injury in the first half but completed the game. The right back’s load needs to be managed after he returned from a hamstring injury just before the end of the season.
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