Tuchel defends full-back selection after James injury

England manager Thomas Tuchel has defended his full-back selection policy after confirming Reece James will miss Saturday's World Cup match against Panama. As revealed by BBC Sport this week, James was assessed by England medics following Tuesday's goalless draw against Ghana after complaining of a hamstring issue. Tuchel has since confirmed that the Chelsea right-back has not travelled to New Jersey from their Kansas City base for their final Group L game against Panama on Saturday (22:00 BST). But he insists James has a chance of playing in England's possible last-32 match next week. However, BBC Sport understands that James is a significant doubt for the start of the knockout stages, should England qualify. James' injury – and the calf issue that caused Tino Livramento to return home from the United States – has thrown into question Tuchel's decision to bring just three recognised full-backs to the World Cup. Djed Spence, James and Livramento were the only genuine full-backs selected. Nico O'Reilly, who played at left-back for Manchester City last season, is also in the squad – but he came through the ranks at Etihad Stadium as a midfielder. Dan Burn has also played at left-back but is recognised as a centre-back. Spence and central defenders Jarell Quansah and Ezri Konsa are Tuchel's alternative options at right-back. Nevertheless, Tuchel said: "Yes, I am [happy with my options at right-back]. …