England have received a mixed fitness boost ahead of their final FIFA World Cup group-stage clash against Panama, with Declan Rice returning to training while Reece James remained absent.
Rice rejoined the squad on Friday after missing Thursday's session due to a minor calf injury sustained during England's goalless draw with Ghana. The Arsenal midfielder had left the Boston Stadium with strapping on his left calf, but the issue was never considered serious and responded well to rest.
The 27-year-old is expected to be available for Saturday's match against Panama, although head coach Thomas Tuchel may opt to manage his minutes. Rice is one booking away from suspension, having received a yellow card against Ghana, meaning another caution would rule him out of England's Round of 32 fixture.
In contrast, James continues to battle a hamstring injury suffered during the Ghana encounter. The Chelsea defender trained individually inside England's base in Kansas City and did not join his teammates on the pitch before the squad travelled to New York, leaving his availability for the Panama match in serious doubt.
Should James fail to recover in time, Tuchel has several options at right-back, including Jarell Quansah, Djed Spence and Ezri Konsa. However, James remains an important figure in England's setup, and the coaching staff will be hoping his injury is not severe enough to affect the rest of his tournament.
There was further positive news for England as Elliot Anderson returned to training after missing Thursday's session. The midfielder, who is reportedly close to completing a £116 million move from Nottingham Forest to Manchester City, took part in Friday's workout without any issues.
England head into Saturday's encounter knowing that victory over Panama will secure top spot in Group L and potentially provide a more favourable path through the knockout stages.
