Three England players were absent from training on Wednesday ahead of Saturday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-final against Norway.
Midfielder Declan Rice, defender Marc Guéhi and full-back Reece James did not take part in the session at Swope Soccer Village, instead working individually as they continue to manage fitness concerns.
Rice has reportedly been dealing with a hamstring issue since Christmas but is still expected to be available for England’s clash with Norway in Miami.
Guéhi is also understood to be struggling with muscle fatigue, although the centre-back is expected to partner Ezri Konsa in defence.
James, however, remains a major doubt after missing England’s last three matches with a hamstring injury. The Chelsea defender is now in a race against time to prove his fitness before the quarter-final.
With Jarell Quansah suspended following his red card in England’s dramatic 3-2 Round of 16 victory over Mexico, Djed Spence is expected to start at right-back if James is unavailable.
Veteran midfielder Jordan Henderson, who recently underwent surgery after breaking his arm during post-match celebrations following the Mexico win, has returned to the team’s hotel in Kansas City but did not participate in training.
Despite being ruled out for the remainder of the tournament, Henderson will stay with the squad, with manager Thomas Tuchel keen to keep the experienced midfielder involved because of his positive influence within the group.
Wednesday’s workout was England’s first training session since returning from Mexico City. The players had been given two days off following the victory over Mexico, with many spending time with their families before regrouping.
England will hold another training session on Thursday before flying to Miami on Friday for their final preparations ahead of the last-eight encounter with Norway.
