Djed Spence Injury Update Ahead of England vs Mexico Clash

England face an anxious wait over Djed Spence after the defender reported a muscular problem on the eve of their World Cup last-16 clash with Mexico at the Azteca Stadium.

The 25-year-old, who impressed at right-back in the last-32 win over DR Congo, has complained of a niggle that has not yet been fully diagnosed. His condition will be monitored up to Sunday night’s kick-off (Monday 01:00 BST), leaving Thomas Tuchel with a significant selection headache on the right side of his defence.

Spence’s issue drops into a back line already short on certainty. Reece James is still a doubt as he continues to nurse a hamstring problem, depriving Tuchel of a settled option in a position that demands both defensive discipline and attacking thrust, especially in the altitude and intensity of the Azteca.

There is at least one boost. Jarell Quansah is back in contention after an ankle injury, picked up in the group-stage win over Panama, kept him out of the DR Congo tie. His return restores one more piece to Tuchel’s defensive puzzle, even if it does not directly solve the right-back question.

If Spence fails to prove his fitness, Tuchel will be forced into yet more reshaping at the back. That could mean a different full-back profile, a centre-half shunted wide, or something more radical.

The injuries have already nudged England towards a tactical crossroads. With both recognised right-backs under a cloud, the door opens to a possible change of shape, perhaps a back three with wing-backs to spread the load and protect tired legs.

On a night when England will need clarity and control in one of world football’s most hostile arenas, Tuchel’s biggest decision may come before a ball is even kicked.