England hit by fresh injury problem just hours before Mexico clash

England have been hit by a fresh injury problem just hours before kick-off in their last-16 clash against Mexico.

Right-back Djed Spence is understood to be a doubt after picking up a minor calf injury.

The Spurs full-back started at full-back in England's 2-1 win against DR Congo, but is reportedly nursing the knock, according to Sky.

Right-back has proved to be a headache for Thomas Tuchel, as he runs out of options for the position.

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Reece James is speculated to make the bench tonight, while Jarrell Quansah has been passed fit to play after missing England's last match.

With Spence a doubt, whoever has to play right-back will be naturally out of position.

Quansah has been versatile for Tuchel, playing in full-back against Panama, with his favoured position in central defence.

Declan Rice, who was in "terrible pain" against DR Congo, played the final 15 minutes of England's last game in the position, as the Three Lions went all out attack.

Rice has already shared his displeasure at playing the role, but is happy to do so for the team.

Other options include Ezri Konsa, who has been starting alongside Marc Guehi in central defence.

Should Konsa play right-back, John Stones would likely come into the back four, partnering his former Manchester City colleague Guehi.

Trevoh Chalobah is an unlikely choice, having been brought into the England camp days before the tournament started after Tino Livramento was ruled out through injury.

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England kick off their last-16 contest against Mexico at 1am, as fans prepare to stay up deep into the night for the fixture.

Harry Kane and his teammates will have to overcome the altitude at the Azteca Stadium, a ground that Mexico have only lost on twice.

The stadium is famously where Diego Maradona scored "the Hand of God" against England, which helped Argentina beat the Three Lions 2-1 in 1986.

Speaking ahead of tonight's contest, Kane said: "It's an historic stadium for many different reasons.

"A tough one to take as an Englishman after that game in particular, but it was a long, long time ago. 40 years ago now.

"It's about writing our own history. We know we have the chance to do something really special in a special stadium away from home.

"There is nothing better than that feeling of winning in a tough away game. It's not about the past, it's about what we can do in the future.

"We have a great opportunity to have a special evening on Sunday."

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